What it is about
A stunning mural has been unveiled in Tel Aviv celebrating the Iranian “Woman. Life. Freedom.” revolution. The mural, which is one of a series of 14 murals across Israel, depicts Iranian women triumphing over former President Raisi’s helicopter. This artwork is the brainchild of Hooman Khalili, a Tehran-born filmmaker and radio personality.
Why it matters
This mural series is a powerful gesture of solidarity from Israel towards the brave women of Iran who are fighting oppressive policies. As Hooman Khalili explains, it serves not only as artistic expression but also as a beacon to inspire women-led revolutions globally, starting with Iran.
The Details
The mural strikingly illustrates Iranian women, who lost their lives under the oppressive Islamic Regime, pulling down former President Raisi’s helicopter with their hair. This symbolizes the fight for freedom from enforced ‘modesty’ laws under the current regime. Also featured is the Bible verse from the Book of Jeremiah: “I will set my throne in Elam and destroy her king and officials, said the Lord,” alongside the slogan “Esthers of the world – rise up!”
The Artist Behind the Murals
Hooman Khalili, the visionary behind these murals, aims to create 18 murals across Israel. Khalili stated, “Elam is the ancient name of Iran. The Bible prophesizes that God will place His throne there and destroy its kings and officials.” Khalili designs these murals himself and collaborates with local Israeli artists for execution.
Unified and Inspired
Some of these murals are spray-painted while others are printed, all maintaining the strong theme of female empowerment and revolutionary spirit. Khalili’s primary purpose is to rally and inspire Iranian women to continue their fight, emphasizing: “This is the first women-led revolution in the world!”
A Message of Support
Khalili expresses an additional motive: to showcase solidarity from Israel to the people of Iran. “I’ve created these murals to show that Israel and the Jewish people stand with the freedom-fighting women in Iran. Nowhere else in the Middle East will you see such murals—only in Israel,” he asserts. “These murals remind us of the three millennia of friendship between Jews and Persians, fractured only in recent history. The real focus of attention should be Iran.”
A Tribute
This particular mural serves as a tribute to the incredible resolve of Iranian women. As Khalili concludes, “’Esthers of the world – rise up!’”
While Khalili’s murals can also be enjoyed online, they hold significant impact by shining brightly in urban Israel, resonating a message of unity and fearless hope.
This story was first published on jpost.com.