World rings in 2026
Minister hails Iran’s culture, religious coexistence in New Year message
Iran’s Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, Abbas Salehi, marked the start of the 2026 Christian New Year by praising Iran’s long-standing tradition of cultural and religious coexistence, as Christian communities across the country observed the beginning of the new calendar year.
In a message released by the ministry’s public relations office, Salehi extended New Year greetings to Iran’s Christian citizens and followers of other faiths, wishing them a year “filled with peace, hope, and blessings” at the outset of 2026, IRNA reported.
The Christian New Year is observed annually on January 1 by churches and Christian communities worldwide and is marked in Iran by religious services, family gatherings, and public celebrations within Christian neighborhoods.
Iran is home to several historic Christian communities, including Armenian and Assyrian Christians, whose presence in the country dates back centuries.
Salehi highlighted Iran’s historical role as a meeting place for diverse beliefs and traditions, noting that different faiths have long lived side by side and contributed to the country’s cultural and artistic life.
He said this shared heritage remains a pillar of national identity and pride, adding that human and ethical bonds among Iranians, regardless of religious or cultural differences, continue to sustain this legacy as the country enters a new year.
Salehi expressed hope that greater understanding and solidarity would help shape a more stable and hopeful future for Iran in 2026.