Nowruz (meaning “new day”) and Pirooz (meaning victory and happiness) together express what we would call “Happy New Year” in English.

This year, however, Nowruz comes at a deeply difficult time for members of the Iranian community, who are witnessing their homeland and loved ones under bombardment. This war, imposed on Iran, is illegal under international law. It is especially painful for those Iranians who oppose war and violence. At BIDC, we affirm that anti-war and anti-violence principles remain at the core of our beliefs. We also extend Eid Mubarak to our Muslim members and supporters, and to all those in Iran and across the region who are suffering the consequences of this illegal war imposed on Iran. At a time that should be marked by reflection, compassion, and unity, we stand with all those observing Nowruz and Eid under hardship and uncertainty.

The message of Nowruz is renewal. We say to our Iranian members and supporters: hold fast to this message with quiet strength and hope. Set your Haft-Seen tables and remain steadfast!

Nowruz is one of the oldest known celebrations still observed today, marking the Iranian New Year at the exact moment of the vernal equinox. Therefore, we extend a Nowruz Pirooz to all Iranians who stand against war and violence. As we remember and mourn innocent civilians affected by this war, we must also continue to observe and preserve our culture—even as cultural sites, museums, hospitals, schools, and civilian infrastructure come under strikes, in contravention of international humanitarian law. We must remain steadfast and uphold what we have carried for millennia, across many faiths and tribes, yet united as a timeless nation.

We also extend our sincere thanks to our British friends and supporters, and to those from other nations and backgrounds. We encourage you to share the petition and to write to your local MP, highlighting its key points. If you have not yet done so, we will soon provide an update which you may wish to use as a template.

Please email us at britishiraniandc@gmail.com so we can stay in touch. As the petition platform does not share your contact details, kindly include “Mailing List” in the subject line.

We call for an end to war, and for peace and diplomacy to prevail.

In memory of the Minab schoolgirls. Nowruz Pirooz and Eid Mubarak.

BIDC