Beyond the Algorithm: The Real Face of the Iranian People

The Reality of the Iranian People vs. the Iranian People on Instagram

We are in the midst of a massive hybrid war—one that begins with media, cinema, and social networks, extends through news agencies and TV channels, and ends with interference in the diplomatic affairs of nations. A meticulously designed campaign, especially over the past two decades, has aimed to distance the Iranian people from their religious beliefs and their unparalleled support for the Islamic Republic of Iran.

This multi-pronged effort began with massive funding for anti-Iranian TV networks and the production of films that blatantly distort history against the Iranian people and their glorious past. It continues with repeated threats from senior officials of hegemonic powers like the U.S., the Zionist regime, and Europe, as well as repeated violations of international agreements—all in an attempt to pave the way for military conflict against Iran.

Can we ignore the historical distortions in films like 300, Argo, and dozens of others? Or forget the blatant breaches of the 2015 nuclear deal by the U.S. and Europe? Or overlook the direct financial and intelligence support from U.S.-based platforms to anti-Iranian media outlets that promote violence and violate journalistic standards?

The Islamic Republic and its people are in the heart of a major information and diplomatic war. All these efforts aim to sever the deep bond between the Iranian people and their government, and to isolate the deeply rooted beliefs of the world's largest Shiite nation.

Yet, contrary to the repeated lies of hostile media, the bond between the people and the government has not weakened. In fact, the repeated hostilities from the U.S. and Europe have strengthened national unity and intensified anti-American, anti-imperialist, and anti-Zionist sentiments.

Despite millions of dollars spent, the religious beliefs of the Iranian people have not diminished—they’ve grown stronger. There are real examples, though often underrepresented on social media, that prove this: from the growing participation of youth in religious rituals like Arbaeen and spiritual retreats, to the massive popularity of TV programs like Mahfel, which centered on the Qur’an and created some of the most beautiful religious gatherings in Iran and beyond.

Another example is the national campaign Living with the Verses, a religious-social initiative launched during Ramadan. Every day, Iranians read a verse from the Qur’an together and reflect on its meaning. In its first year alone, this campaign attracted 20 million participants—a staggering number that reflects the deep faith of the Iranian people in Islam.