Iranian Shia religious associations have chosen this year’s shared slogan, inspired by the resilience of the Iranian people following the martyrdom of their leader

Iranian Shia religious associations have adopted a common slogan for this year’s Fatimiyyah observances, reflecting public calls for retribution following the killing of the country’s leader.

Iranian Shia religious associations have adopted a common slogan for this year’s Fatimiyyah observances, reflecting public calls for retribution following the martyrdom of the country’s leader.

Fatimiyyah is an annual Shia observance commemorating the death of Fatimah al-Zahra, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad and the wife of Imam Ali. Ali was the Prophet’s cousin and one of his earliest followers. In Shia belief, he is regarded as the first Imam and the Prophet’s rightful successor.

During Fatimiyyah, Shia Muslims hold mourning ceremonies and religious gatherings to honor Fatimah’s life and significance. In Iran, Shia religious associations play a central role in organizing these observances. Alongside mourning ceremonies, they also arrange cultural and social activities on

The shared slogan adopted by Iranian Shia religious associations for this year’s Fatimiyyah observances is: “We Are Zahra’s Army, United in the Quest to Avenge the Martyred.” It was selected following an open call in October 2026 and consultations with representatives of the associations. The choice comes against the backdrop of the joint US and Israeli attacks on Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, and in which a number of Iranian officials and civilians were martyred. The slogan reflects calls to avenge those deaths and seek retribution for those responsible.

The organizers say the message extends beyond mourning, connecting the demand for retribution with perseverance, religious values and social responsibility. In this approach, remembering those who have been martyred and seeking justice for them go hand in hand with carrying their cause forward and taking an active role in society.

Women’s Awakening: Awareness, Responsibility and Social Engagement
The theme of women’s awakening highlights the importance of women understanding their identity, embracing social responsibility and participating actively in society. It draws inspiration from Fatimah al-Zahra’s place in Shia religious tradition and presents her life as a source of guidance for women’s engagement in public life.

The organizers emphasize that women’s participation should not be limited to religious ceremonies or confined to particular occasions. Families, home gatherings, mosques, neighborhoods and religious associations are all seen as spaces where women can contribute to social life and strengthen solidarity.

Other Themes of the Call
The call also identifies several other themes, including encouraging public participation inspired by Fatimah al-Zahra, promoting a lifestyle based on resistance, pursuing justice, fostering hope and strengthening social solidarity. It also highlights the role of media storytelling and efforts to counter what the organizers describe as a media war.

Invitation to Religious Associations
Religious associations across Iran have been invited to incorporate the shared slogan into their cultural content, public communications and visual materials for this year’s Fatimiyyah observances. The organizers have also emphasized that each association should retain its distinct identity while taking part in the shared initiative.

This year’s observances seek to bring together remembrance of Fatimah al-Zahra, calls for retribution for those martyred and a commitment to perseverance and social responsibility. They also underscore women’s role in public life and the contribution of religious associations to community solidarity.