Tehran Official Unveils War Tours to Showcase Iranian Resilience and Strength

In the aftermath of recent events, the Iranian capital is showcasing its resilience through organized tours of sites affected during the 12-day war imposed by Israel. Amir Qasemi, the head of Tehran Municipality’s tourism office, emphasized the importance of these tours in preserving the memory of the Iranian people’s bravery.

According to Qasemi, “If we don’t explain, the bravery of the Iranian people during the 12 days of war will be forgotten.” He elaborated on the initiative, highlighting its goals and significance:

• Purpose of the Tours: The tours aim to educate and inform the public about the impact of the war on local sites and the community.
• Target Audience: Initially designed for elites, such as university professors, the tours encourage participants to share their experiences with future generations.
• Emphasis on Resilience: Qasemi noted the passion and dedication of the Iranian people, stating that such events bring together those who may have previously been critical.

Qasemi explained, “This tour was an improvised idea that I first saw the feedback during the photographers’ tour. We organize this tour for the elite, including university professors. We take them to see the disasters. We take them to see the war disasters. By taking elites to these places, we ask them to pass this on from generation to generation and tell what our people went through.”

He also remarked on the contrasting perceptions of the city during the war: “It is true that during the war many people traveled and Tehran became deserted, but the entire country was active. Tehran supported the eight-year 1980-88 war, but it was at the forefront of the war during the 12-day conflict. The reaction of the people at that time was unparalleled.”

Qasemi’s personal experiences during the conflict further fueled his passion for the initiative. He shared, “I was at work for these 12 days. I saw things that I probably wouldn’t have seen if I had been born in another country. That’s why I tell my colleagues that we should try our best for these people. Whatever service we provide benefits them.”

One of the notable proposals from Qasemi includes making museums free and organizing tours via the Tehran Municipality’s tourism office. He believes that municipal districts should not charge citizens for participation but rather incentivize involvement to ensure the tours are accessible:

• Community Engagement: Partnering with the public has shown positive results, enhancing the overall experience and support for the initiative.
• Future Aspirations: Qasemi expressed hope that Tehran could eventually become a recognized tourist destination.

He concluded with optimism about the project’s impact and the potential for cultural exchange: “We have seen a good effect in this area. When we partner with the people, our work goes better. I hope that Tehran will one day become a tourist destination.”

As the tours continue to unfold, they serve not only as a means of remembrance but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Iranian people. Through these efforts, the stories and sacrifices made during the conflict are preserved, ensuring that the legacy of resilience lives on for generations to come.