By Africanews
with AP
Iran
A show of force designed to project power.
Iran's armed forces have held a parade annually since 1980. But this year's event takes on special importance and symbolism given the high tensions in the region prompted by Israel's war on Gaza
During the parade, Tehran displayed its latest missiles and drones, including the Shahed 136B drone and the Fattah hypersonic missile.
An older version of the Shahed drone has been reportedly used by Russia during its war with Ukraine.
President Masoud Pezeshkian appealed for unity in his address to the crowds.
"If we are united, if we join hands, Israel the usurper will not be able to commit the crimes it's committing now in the region," said Pezeshkian.
"No evil (country) has the courage to even harbour the idea of invading our soil in their mind," Pezeshkian added.
01:45
Surfers in war-torn Gaza find rare moments of joy taking to the waves
01:10
Iran's new Supreme Leader is reportedly recovering from severe wounds
02:07
Condemnation and outrage: Israelis and world react to Israeli death penalty law
00:30
Gaza garbage crisis: Two million trapped in sea of waste and rubble
01:30
Cape Town Shia Muslim association mourns Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
01:24
Iran: Life of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei