In Bethlehem, Tehran and Tel Aviv, “compatriots” simultaneously held “rituals” to celebrate “Russia Day 2025”

What can unite people in “a single impulse” across Tel Aviv, Tehran, and Bethlehem? You guessed right — celebration of “Russia Day” by “compatriots”.

Three cities — one message: how the Kremlin celebrates abroad

While Ukraine fights for its independence and Israel maintains a complicated neutrality, mass events were held across the Middle East — in Tel Aviv, Bethlehem, and Tehran — to mark “Russia Day.” These events, organized with the support of Russian diplomatic missions, Rossotrudnichestvo, and the “Russian World” infrastructure, are part of a geopolitical campaign aimed at strengthening Russia’s influence amid international isolation.

Tel Aviv: 600 square meters of the Russian flag on Israeli soil

On the eve of June 12, 2025, activists unfurled a massive Russian flag over 600 square meters in size in Tel Aviv’s Edith Wolfson Park. Russian state media — TASS and RIA Novosti — quickly and proudly broadcasted the event to the world (you know, to whoever still reads them).

According to their reports, as many as several dozen people took part in the action.

Then came the “traditional festivities”: songs, round dances, pies, and sweets. Officially a cultural event, but in reality — a symbolic political act. Such celebrations have been held annually since 2020 with the support of the Russian embassy and Rossotrudnichestvo in Israel.

“A 600-square-meter flag in Tel Aviv is a symbol of approving aggression. Children see it, it’s shown on TV. It’s doubly painful against the backdrop of Ukrainian victims,” notes the editorial board of NAnews.

According to the Russian embassy in Israel: “Guests participated in festive events: competing in Russian folk songs, dancing in circles, reciting poems by classic authors… and even received a traditional Russian ‘karavai’ (no way! Wow!!!).”

Bethlehem: “Rodnichok” choir and photo exhibition in a monastery

In “Palestinian Bethlehem,” Russia Day was celebrated on the grounds of the Cremisan monastery. Events included:

• Photo exhibition “Landscapes of Russia”
• Awards for young “compatriots”
• Performances by the “Rodnichok” children’s choir and dance troupes
• Quizzes and masterclasses
• A communal picnic

Organized by the “Russian House” in Bethlehem, the Russian Representation to the “Palestinian National Authority,” and “KSORS Palestine.” Under the guise of “culture,” Russia is expanding soft power among “Palestinian youth” — some of whom are openly hostile to Israel.

Tehran: Russia and Iran’s alliance now sings and dances too

In Iran’s capital, a Russian Culture Festival was held with the participation of Russian Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova and Head of the Islamic Culture Organization of Iran Mehdi Imanipour. The program featured:

• Exhibition “Living Traditions of Russia”
• Traditional Russian handicrafts
• Performances by the Tchaikovsky State Symphony Orchestra, “Lezginka” dance ensemble, and Russian vocal soloists
• Tasting of Russian sweets

The event took place in the Vahdat Concert Hall and reportedly “sparked great interest among the Iranian public.”

Against the backdrop of Tehran’s anti-Western stance and the two countries’ military alliance, this kind of cultural collaboration is viewed as a consolidation of the authoritarian bloc.

Comparison table: How Russia Day 2025 was celebrated

Context: What does Russia celebrate on June 12?

Officially, “Russia Day” commemorates the 1990 Declaration of Sovereignty of the RSFSR. Since 1994, it has been a national holiday. In today’s geopolitical context, however, this date has turned into a stage for Kremlin influence operations abroad.

Why it matters to Israel and Ukraine

Israel is home to a large and influential Russian-speaking population. Yet, more and more of them refuse to accept parades of the aggressor’s flag. These events are offensive not only to Israeli citizens of Ukrainian descent, but also to those who understand the danger of legitimizing putin’s regime.

NAnews — Israel News continues to report on stories that official channels ignore, highlighting how cultural facades can hide dangerous political messages. Russia, backed by Iran and finding common ground with radical Palestinian factions, is ramping up its influence in a region that borders Israel directly.

Conclusion

Russia Day 2025 abroad once again became a political spectacle — not a celebration of peace.

Tel Aviv, Bethlehem, and Tehran were drawn into a display of ideology that contradicts the values of democracy and justice.