10.01.2026 14:35
The US-based social media platform X changed the Iranian flag on its web version to the "Lion and Sun" flag used before the 1979 Revolution at the request of a user.
The US-based X social media platform updated the Iranian flag on its web version to the flag used before the 1979 Revolution at the request of a user.
X CHANGED THE IRANIAN FLAG
Nikita Bier, the product manager of the X platform, responded to a user's request to change the Iranian flag emoji. In his response, Bier stated that the current flag of Iran would be changed to the "Lion and Sun" flag used before the 1979 Revolution. Hours after the response, the updated Iranian flag was seen on the platform's web version.
The new flag features the "Lion and Sun" motif, which has been used in Iran for centuries and is associated with Shah Reza Pahlavi, replacing the current flag adopted during the Islamic Republic period that carries a red emblem. This symbol was removed from official use after the 1979 Revolution.
Following the change, it was noteworthy that the new flag began to appear on the official X profiles of state-affiliated accounts, such as Tasnim News, known for its closeness to the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Revolutionary Guards.
PROTESTS IN IRAN
Protests initiated by shopkeepers in Tehran's Grand Bazaar on December 28, 2025, due to a significant depreciation of the local currency against foreign exchange rates and economic issues, spread to many cities across the country.
While no official statement was made regarding those killed or injured in the protests, the Iranian Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported on January 9 (the 13th day of the protests) that 65 people, including 15 security personnel, had lost their lives, dozens were injured, and 2,311 people had been detained.
Tasnim News Agency reported that the number of injured police officers in the protests had risen to 568, and the militia force (Basij) to 66.
While public institutions and vehicles were damaged in various incidents across the country, a warning was issued yesterday in the capital Tehran not to go outside.