Iran has unveiled a monumental statue in Tehran’s Revolution Square of Roman Emperor Valerian kneeling before Sasanian king Shapur I, symbolizing ancient Persian victory and serving as a postwar message of resistance against Israel. Iranian authorities framed the “Kneel Before Iran” campaign as an effort to revive pre-Islamic nationalism after a brutal 12-day conflict with Israel in 2025, aiming to foster unity and pride. The move comes as President Masoud Pezeshkian doubled down on Iran’s resolve not to abandon its nuclear or missile programs amid continued Israeli tensions, and as President Trump signaled possible US sanctions relief for Tehran.