The U.S. Commends 'The Resistance of the People of Iran Against Repression' While Celebrating Yalda Night

The U.S. Department of State congratulated the arrival of Yalda Night and praised the 'enduring resistance of Iranians against repression'. Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the State Department, noted in a statement on Friday evening, December 30, that 'we appreciate their enduring resistance against repression.' Mr. Miller described the celebration of Yalda Night as a 'symbol of hope and renewal' and emphasized that Yalda 'is a poignant reminder that light finds its way even into the darkest nights.' He reiterated America's support for the people of Iran, stating: 'Their courage in the face of repression and their tireless efforts for freedom inspire the world.' Matthew Miller once again referred to the United States standing alongside the people of Iran, expressing his belief that dawn will bring a brighter future. Abram Paley, the Deputy Special Representative for Iran at the State Department, reiterated lines from this statement, asserting that the Iranian regime's efforts to control and silence the people 'are indicative of fear, not power.' He wrote on the social media platform X: 'Even the longest night gives way to dawn.' The U.S. Central Command, CENTCOM, also congratulated Yalda Night through a social media post. Meanwhile, several political and civil activists in Iran also congratulated Yalda Night, speaking of the victims of protests, political prisoners, and the economic hardships faced by citizens. Among them, Narges Mohammadi, a human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, honored the memory of political and ideological prisoners in a video from outside Zanjan prison. In this video message, Ms. Mohammadi emphasized that 'even the darkest night of the year will eventually come to an end,' congratulating the people of Iran on the arrival of Yalda Night and expressing hope that 'the dark night of executions' in Iran will come to an end and 'we will celebrate the morning of hope and victory.' Narges Mohammadi was sent on medical leave from Evin prison about two weeks ago due to her deteriorating health. Prince Reza Pahlavi also wrote in a message that Iranians celebrate Yalda while suffering and poverty overshadow their lives. In this message, referring to grieving families and those seeking justice for their lost loved ones, he emphasized: 'This Yalda Night, more than ever, symbolizes national solidarity and resistance against a regime that has plundered the existence of the people.' Amjad Amini, the father of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, also congratulated the people of Iran on Yalda Night and wrote on his Instagram that long Yaldas are only bearable when spent together, keeping the hope for the dawn alive. He added: 'Despite the absence of our Zhinas, our Yalda has become darker, but in respect for this ancient tradition, we celebrate Yalda with the dear people of Iran.' The Coordinating Council of Teachers' Trade Unions also reminded that on Yalda Night, there are still 15 imprisoned teachers. Several other political and civil activists, artists, and cultural and social figures have also published messages on the occasion of Yalda Night. The last night of Azar until the dawn of the first day of Dey is the longest night of the year, and Iranians have celebrated it since ancient times.