Moment a protester raises pre-Islamic revolution flag in Iran

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Footage captured by local eyewitness shows a protester raising the pre-Islamic revolution lion and sun flag - the Pahlavi flag - during the mass protest in Tehran, Iran, on Friday night Jan 9, 2026. Massive crowds, fires, and debris can be seen without any apparent military or police response. The protests appear to be growing despite Islamist leaders cutting off access to the internet nationwide in a bid to prevent a potential rebellion. The Lion and Sun symbol dates back to the 12th century and was featured on Iran’s flag from the 19th century.