Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), more than 580 members of Melbourne’s Iranian and Jewish communities gathered on Sunday to celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New Year, in a show of unity and hope.
Organised by community leader Sharon Kuperholz, the event was designed to highlight solidarity and shared humanity during a time of grief and uncertainty. “There are daily missiles striking Israel and a complete internet blackout in Iran,” Kuperholz said. “That’s what made this event even more important — to connect and embrace, knowing that the IRGC is our common enemy, not the citizens of Iran who’ve suffered under oppression for decades.”
The celebration, co-hosted with Iranian-Australian Omid Rokni, featured Iranian and Israeli food, live music, and performances by local DJs and singers. Speeches were delivered by community representatives and politicians, including federal opposition MP Tim Wilson, state MP David Southwick, and Mayor Simone Zmood, before the crowd converged on the dance floor.
Attendees waved Israeli and Iranian flags, shared meals, and joined in traditional dances. “The atmosphere was pure joy, mutual respect and genuine connection,” Rokni said, describing the event as “the circuit breaker we all needed.”
Rokni also voiced support for democratic reform in Iran, noting that “leaving the IRGC in power is not peace.” He and others expressed hope for a “new era of freedom for the people of Iran and peace for the people of Israel,” echoing the Nowruz theme of renewal and new beginnings.