Thousands of Lebanese people gathered on Sunday to express solidarity with Iran and mourn the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in Saturday's attack by Israel and the United States.
During the rally in the southern suburbs of Beirut, participants performed mourning rituals for the late leader and chanted slogans condemning the U.S. and Israel.
"Mercy to the leader and the martyrs. Even Imam Hussein was martyred, but his march did not stop. God willing, Israel and the US will be defeated, and God will grant victory to the Islamic resistance in Iran and Hezbollah," said a participant.
"Our message is that we will follow in the footsteps of the Imam, the leader, and continue the march, God willing. It was shocking and heartbreaking news. We are still in shock," another said.
Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem issued a statement on Sunday, paying tribute to Khamenei. He said the assassination of the Iranian Supreme Leader represents the "height of criminality" and "a stain on humanity."
He also pledged to confront aggression no matter the cost, stressing that the resistance will not retreat from the battlefield.
Khamenei was one of the longest-serving leaders in the Middle East, and his death was expected to cast a long shadow over Iran and the broader region.
Thousands rally in Beirut to mourn Khamenei after U.S.-Israeli strike
Various activities were held across China to celebrate the Lantern Festival, which falls on the 15th day of the first month on he Chinese lunar calendar, or March 3 this year.
In Xining City of northwest China's Qinghai Province, a spectacular exhibition featuring intangible cultural heritage was held, transforming the streets into a vibrant cultural feast.
In Baoqing County of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, a dozen traditional Yangge folk dance teams enchanted audiences with their performances during a lively parade, showcasing the allure of local culture.
Shengfang ancient town in Langfang City, north China's Hebei Province staged a performance featuring stilt walking, martial arts and lion dances, accompanied by the lively beat of drums, creating a festive and bustling atmosphere.
In Urumqi City of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, vibrant folk activities dazzled audiences as performers engaged in lively dragon and lion dances, Yangge folk dances and other activities. The rich blend of song and dance brought a joyous spirit to the festivities.
"There were a total of 18 folk performance teams, jointly presenting a spectacular parade that showcased the charm of folk performances through the collaboration of various ethnic groups," said Shi Zhongming, head of the local cultural center.
As the Lantern Festival draws near, people are busy preparing for this cherished occasion by making tangyuan -- glutinous rice balls commonly filled with sweet ingredients such as peanuts or black sesame. In Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County of southwest China's Sichuan Province, residents gathered to create colorful tangyuan, celebrating the sweetness of life during this traditional festival.
In Weng'an County of southwest China's Guizhou Province, local villagers joined forces to make tangyuan and ciba -- a traditional glutinous rice cake, fostering a sense of neighborly warmth as they crafted these delicious treats together.
At the historic Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai, numerous visitors enjoyed tangyuan from renowned local eateries, savoring the festive flavors.
"Our family comes together to eat tangyuan, which symbolizes reunion and sweetness," said He Jinjing, a visitor.
The Lantern Festival celebrations continued to thrive under the night sky, coming alive with even more vibrancy.
In Yangliuqing ancient town of north China's Tianjin Municipality, a stunning display featuring 59 themed lantern groups and 28,000 decorative lights greeted visitors, inviting them to embrace the joyous spirit of the festival.
In the picturesque Nanyandang Mountains of east China's Zhejiang Province, people enjoyed colorful lanterns and captivating performances, immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere amidst breathtaking landscapes.
In Chongzuo City of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, crowds guessed lantern riddles and enjoyed traditional heritage exhibitions, treating themselves to a visual feast that celebrated the richness of cultural traditions.
In Putian City of east China's Fujian Province, over 2,000 residents adorned their ordinary benches with lights and connected them to create vibrant dragons that paraded through the streets.
"This year, the lantern parade featured more participants, longer 'dragons', and a livelier atmosphere, signaling a prosperous and thriving year ahead," said Huang Suhong, a local resident.
Various activities held across China to celebrate Lantern Festival
