Kneel Before Iranians: A Modern Spectacle of Ancient Pride

In Shiraz, another billboard featuring a variation of the same image caused further controversy. In this version, the face of Valerian was replaced with that of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, creating an overtly political statement that tied ancient triumphs to contemporary rivalries. The timing was notable, coming shortly after a twelve-day conflict between Iran and Israel, which had reignited nationalist rhetoric within Iranian media and political discourse.