Iranian MP: Stop American flags on clothing or risk Israeli flag tattoos

Iranian MP Mojtaba Rahmandoust warned Tuesday that if American flags on youth clothing are not stopped, young people will soon start tattooing the Israeli flag.

The MP expressed concern that Iran’s regional allies might view such behavior among the youth unfavorably, interpreting it as a reflection of poor judgment rather than an affinity for these nations.

“Should foreign photographers or international media outlets circulate images of our people wearing garments adorned with the American or Israeli flag, our standing in the Islamic world and among the members of the Axis of Resistance [Tehran-backed armed groups] would be severely compromised," he added. "It must be emphasized that many of the young individuals who bear tattoos of the American flag or don attire featuring it do so out of ignorance, and not from any heartfelt belief in the United States or Israel."

This sentiment comes as Tehran hardliners regularly burn Israeli and US flags during rallies, chanting "Death to Israel" and "Death to the US" They also paint these flags on pavements to encourage people to trample them. However, for years, many Iranians—particularly students at universities—have actively avoided stepping on the American and Israeli flags painted by agents of the Islamic Republic.