Two Jews who were arrested on suspicion of involvement in protests in Tehran and Shiraz have been released following efforts by senior figures in Iran’s Jewish community. One Jewish detainee remains in custody, and significant efforts are also underway to secure his release.
Meanwhile, Dr. Homayoun Sameh, the Jewish representative in the Iranian parliament, marched Wednesday alongside Hakham Hamami Lalezar , one of Iran’s rabbis, and many members of the Jewish community in a rally marking Revolution Day and expressing support for the regime. Sameh voiced full support for the authorities in Tehran, after having criticized Iran’s president several weeks ago.
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Dr. Homayoun Sameh, Jewish representative in Iran's parliament, left, alongside Hakham Hamami Lalezar, one of Iran’s rabbis
Sameh told Iranian media that “the march expresses loyalty to the ideals of the revolution and a declaration of allegiance to the Iranian leadership.” He added that the rally is “a symbol of national solidarity and cohesion in the face of internal and external challenges.” According to him, “participation has always been considered a sign of loyalty to the principles of the Islamic Revolution and the ideals of Imam Khamenei.”
Sameh emphasized in an interview the regime’s support for “religious minorities,” noting that this backing “strengthens our morale and helps us achieve national and social goals.” The Jewish lawmaker was photographed holding a sign alongside Hakham Hamami reading: “22 Bahman, the day of the Islamic Revolution, is the day when light triumphed over darkness.”
He added that “religious minorities in Iran have always been present as part of the broader society in the nation’s struggle for independence and freedom, and together with other segments of the people, they voice their call for solidarity to the world.” The parliament member further stated that “the Supreme Leader’s statements in this regard will strengthen his influence and the power of the Iranian people through their unity against enemies. Participation in this march sends a strong message to enemies that Iran can withstand any threat through unity and empathy.”
Hakham Hamami Lalezar, a physician and rabbi in Iran’s Jewish community, also took part in the rally. Referring to recent years and “foreign threats,” he said: “The sensitivity of this march under current circumstances is greater than in the past, and the need to demonstrate the unity of all parts of the Iranian nation is strongly felt.”
He stressed that “religious minorities, including the Jews, have always stood with the Iranian nation, even before the revolution.” According to him, “the enemies do not dare attack us, because their attacks do not distinguish between Muslims, Jews, and Christians.”
Lalezar added: “The enemy is the enemy of us all, and all parts of the Iranian nation are united in defending the country and its pride, and they have never failed in this until today.” He sent a message to the “enemies of Iran,” saying that “the national unity of the Iranians is a red line that cannot be ignored.”