What does the 'Flag of Revenge' that has been raised 4 times throughout history mean?

The airstrikes carried out by Israel against Iran on the night of June 13 have alarmed not only the region but the entire global public.

Numerous high-ranking figures lost their lives in the attacks, including Iran's Chief of General Staff Mohammad Bagheri, Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami, and six nuclear scientists.

Following the attack, a red flag of revenge was hoisted on the dome of the Jamkaran Mosque in the city of Qom, Iran.

WHAT IS THE RED FLAG OF REVENGE?

The flag is an important symbol that deeply reflects Iran's historical, religious, and political identity. Its origins date back to the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in Karbala in 680.

Since that date, it has represented the belief that "resistance against oppression and the accounting for blood will be demanded."

The phrase "Ya Letharat al-Husayn" on the flag means "O those who will avenge the blood of Hussein!" For the Iranian people, this symbol is a sign where revenge, justice, and sacrifice converge; it is not a declaration of war, but a warning that war is approaching.

THE SYMBOLIC POWER OF JAMKARAN MOSQUE

The Jamkaran Mosque is considered a sacred place in Shia belief where the Mahdi (the Expected One) will return to earth. Therefore, hoisting the red flag here not only symbolizes revenge but also carries the meaning of "the arrival of justice on the verge of the apocalypse."

This move is a powerful and meaningful political message directed not only at the Iranian domestic public but also at international actors.

HOISTED 4 TIMES THROUGHOUT HISTORY

1. 2020: After the killing of Qasem Soleimani in a US attack.

2. 2024: After the bombings at a memorial for Qasem Soleimani in the Iranian city of Kerman, which resulted in the deaths of 89 people.

3. 2024: After the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.

4. 2025: After the killing of high-ranking Iranians in the Israeli attacks on June 13.

Each of these developments indicated that Iran's red lines had been crossed and were considered the final warning before war.

Statement from Khamenei: "A harsh response will be given to Israel"

In a statement following the attacks, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said, "The price for this attack on the Islamic Republic will be heavy." Assessments suggest that the message of revenge will turn into not just religious rhetoric, but also a military strategy.