Iranian authorities unveiled a provocative new mural on a massive billboard in Tehran’s Enghelab Square, sending a stark message to the United States against any potential military strikes. The artwork portrays a bird’s-eye view of a heavily damaged aircraft carrier—believed to represent the USS Abraham Lincoln—with exploding fighter jets scattered across its deck, bodies strewn about, and trails of blood forming patterns resembling the stripes of the American flag. The bold slogan “If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind” appears prominently, echoing biblical warnings of severe retaliation for aggression.

This dramatic display coincides with heightened military movements in the region. The USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying warships are heading toward the Middle East, a deployment US President Donald Trump described as precautionary, stating the fleet is en route “just in case” action becomes necessary. Trump recently remarked that any US military response would dwarf previous strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, making them “look like peanuts.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard commander declared his forces “more ready than ever, finger on the trigger.”

The mural emerges against the backdrop of brutal suppression of nationwide protests in Iran that erupted late last year, initially triggered by the sharp fall of the rial currency and economic hardship. The demonstrations spread rapidly but faced a ferocious crackdown by security forces, including a prolonged internet blackout that hindered information flow. Activists report staggering casualties, with death tolls exceeding 5,000 and arrests surpassing 40,000, figures far higher than official Iranian claims of around 3,117 deaths, many labeled as involving “terrorists.”

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Tensions spiked further after Trump’s threats of intervention if Iran persisted with deadly force against protesters or mass executions. Although protests have quieted and claims of halted executions surfaced, the US maintains a strong military posture, including F-15E Strike Eagles in the region and UK Typhoon jets deployed defensively to Qatar. The mural serves as both propaganda and a psychological deterrent, signaling Tehran’s resolve amid fears of escalation.

The artwork in Enghelab Square, a frequent site for state-orchestrated displays, underscores Iran’s strategy of visual defiance in the face of perceived threats from Washington.

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