Iran Marks Anniversary Of 1979 Islamic Revolution

Iranians attend celebrations on Tehran's Azadi (Freedom) Square to mark the 37th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution on February 11.

Iranians are commemorating the 37th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution with rallies across the country.

Demonstrations are taking place on February 11 in Tehran and other cities and towns, with many participants chanting slogans against the United States and Israel.

Speaking to crowds in Tehran's Azadi Square, President Hassan Rohani urged Iran's political factions to seek consensus, after a constitutional watchdog disqualified thousands of moderate candidates from running in the February 26 elections to both parliament and to a top clerical body, the Assembly of Experts.

"Political factions should put aside any confrontation," Rohani said "We need consensus now."

On February 11, 1979, followers of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini ousted U.S.-backed Shah Reza Pahlavi.

This year's commemorations follow the implementation in January of a landmark nuclear agreement with world powers.

International economic sanctions against Tehran were lifted under last year's deal after the United Nations certified that Tehran had met all of its commitments toward curbing its nuclear activities.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, and IRNA