On the anniversary of the martyrdom of Mirza Kuchak Khan, members of the MEK Resistance Units across Iran held coordinated ceremonies and displays to honor the historic leader of the Jangal Movement. Their actions highlighted the enduring link between Mirza’s century-old fight against tyranny and today’s struggle for freedom.
1/
🧵On the anniversary of Mirza Kuchak Khan's martyrdom, Resistance Units and young freedom fighters across Iran honored his legacy, linking his struggle to today’s fight against oppression. #IranProtests #IranRevolution #FreeIran pic.twitter.com/eHs46ONLni— Iran News Update (@IranNewsUpdate1) December 2, 2025
Mirza Kuchak Khan: A Symbol of Resistance
Mirza Kuchak Khan (1880–1921), born in Rasht, became a pivotal figure during Iran’s Constitutional era. Best known for leading the Jangal Movement in the forests of Gilan, he opposed foreign intervention—particularly Russian and British influence—while resisting both Qajar despotism and emerging authoritarian rule. His commitment to independence, justice, and social reform secured his place as one of Iran’s most enduring symbols of national resistance.
Mirza was ultimately pursued by Reza Khan’s forces and died of exposure in the Talysh mountains in December 1921. His severed head was displayed in Rasht and Tehran, a stark reminder of the brutality used to crush dissent.
Activities Across 15 Cities
On Sunday, November 30 and December 1, 2025, youth and MEK Resistance Units organized events in 15 cities, including Rasht, Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, Karaj, Qazvin, Kermanshah, and Hamadan. Their activities included posting leaflets and posters, placing floral tributes, and holding small photo-call gatherings to commemorate Mirza’s life and mission.
Shiraz
"Mirza gave his life for his ideals and now flows through the veins and hearts of each of us" pic.twitter.com/7yPRVIi2bY— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) December 2, 2025
In Rasht, activists gathered at Mirza’s tomb, laying flowers with messages such as “We have sworn to carry on Mirza’s path.” In Tehran and other major cities, posters and placards appeared with messages like “Mirza is here, in the heart of each of us” and “Mirza was a teacher of loyalty, sacrifice, patriotism, and compassion.”
Linking Past and Present Struggles
The commemorations also carried the slogans of today’s Iranian resistance, drawing a direct line between Mirza’s fight against dictatorship and ongoing demands for freedom. Among the slogans displayed were:
-
“Massoud Rajavi: We have sworn to continue Mirza’s path”
-
“Death to the oppressor, whether Shah or Leader”
These messages reflected a broader theme emphasized by the youth: that resistance to tyranny in Iran spans generations and rejects all forms of authoritarianism.
December 1—Iran
PMOI Resistance Units honor Mirza Kuchak Khan, revolutionary leader of Iran's Jungle Movement and freedom fighter, on the anniversary of his martyrdom. pic.twitter.com/lZua8fULBZ— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) December 2, 2025
A Living Legacy of Courage and Defiance
By honoring Mirza Kuchak Khan, participants underscored that Iran’s modern freedom movement is rooted in a long history of sacrifice. Mirza himself wrote shortly before his death that his movement sought only “the comfort and protection of the people’s property and honor.” Today’s MEK Resistance Units say they draw inspiration from this same spirit.
The nationwide tributes demonstrated that, despite repression, the drive for justice and liberty remains deeply ingrained in Iranian society—and that the memory of figures like Mirza Kuchak Khan continues to guide new generations of activists.
