Large crowds gathered in the Iranian capital on Wednesday, filling streets with flags, music, and chants after Iran's Supreme National Security Council formally declared a “historic victory” over the United States and Israel.

State media footage from Mehr News Agency showed festive scenes along Valiasr Street, Tehran’s longest and most iconic avenue. People waved Iranian flags, played music, and celebrated in a jubilant atmosphere. Cars and motorcycles adorned with national flags moved through the crowds as participants chanted slogans praising the country’s resilience and strategic success. 

The celebrations followed an announcement from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, which described recent developments as a “historic and crushing defeat” for Washington and Tel Aviv. Press TV reported the council’s statement framing the outcome as evidence of Iran’s strength and deterrence capabilities. 

The declaration comes after a two-week ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States, reached in the final hours before a US deadline. The deal halts hostilities that had escalated across the region over recent weeks and includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for maritime traffic, coordinated by Iranian military authorities.

Iranian officials portrayed the ceasefire—tied to diplomatic efforts mediated by regional actors, with further talks scheduled in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Friday—as a strategic win. They argued that Tehran forced its adversaries to back down from further escalation while maintaining control over key regional dynamics. 

US President Donald Trump and his administration have also claimed victory, describing the agreement as a “total and complete victory” for the United States. Israel has reportedly agreed to the terms, though the ceasefire does not extend to all regional fronts, such as ongoing issues involving Hezbollah in Lebanon. 

The public reaction in Tehran reflects a surge in national pride and unity. Observers note that the street celebrations serve as both a genuine expression of domestic sentiment and a message of internal cohesion to the international community.

Analysts caution, however, that the situation remains fluid. While the two-week pause has eased immediate tensions and stabilized energy markets disrupted by the conflict, the long-term outcome depends on whether upcoming negotiations can address core disputes, including sanctions, security guarantees, and regional influence.

The developments have drawn significant global attention, particularly regarding energy security and shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies. Markets have reacted positively to the de-escalation, though uncertainties linger about the durability of the truce.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the focus will be on whether this temporary ceasefire can evolve into a lasting settlement in one of the world’s most volatile regions—or if underlying tensions could reignite hostilities. Both sides have signaled willingness to talk while maintaining firm positions on their core interests. (ILKHA)