‘We Love You, Commander’: Iranians Shower Quds Force Chief with Praise in Public Encounter

According to Saed News, a viral video captured a crowd of Iranian citizens warmly greeting Brigadier General Esmail Qaani, commander of the IRGC Quds Force, during a funeral ceremony held in Tehran for those hailed as martyrs of national defense. The footage shows people shouting emotional slogans such as “We love you, Commander!” and “May your enemies perish, God willing,” in a striking display of loyalty and admiration.

General Qaani, who succeeded Qassem Soleimani after his assassination by a U.S. drone strike in 2020, has maintained a relatively low public profile compared to his predecessor. However, his appearance at the high-profile public event ignited a wave of fervent reactions from bystanders, many of whom pulled out their phones to record the moment.

The chants and spontaneous expressions of support underscore the enduring symbolic power of the Quds Force within segments of Iranian society, especially at a time of heightened regional tension and nationalistic sentiment. While critics abroad view the Quds Force through the lens of Iran’s controversial regional influence, the video reflects how figures like Qaani are venerated by many domestically as protectors of national sovereignty and honor.

This latest moment of public reverence highlights the deep-rooted emotional connections between the Iranian public and military leadership, particularly in the context of shared narratives of resistance and sacrifice.