A historic Iranian national Lion and Sun flag has been raised at the Iranian embassy in Washington, D.C., marking the first time the symbol has appeared there since 1979.
The flag, associated with pre Islamic Republic Iran, has long been a symbol for monarchists and opposition groups.
Its appearance has sparked intense reaction among Iranians, with supporters calling it a powerful rejection of the current regime and critics condemning it as provocative.
Officials have not issued an explanation for the move, but the moment is being widely viewed as highly symbolic amid escalating unrest inside Iran.
