The tragic incident known as Black Friday unfolded when Iranian soldiers targeted a crowd of protesters in Tehran, resulting in the deaths of at least 88 individuals. This brutal suppression occurred during a period of escalating tension and widespread unrest throughout the country, as citizens expressed their outrage against the autocratic rule of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi. The protests initially focused on grievances related to political oppression, economic inequality, and social issues, building momentum throughout the summer of 1978. On this fateful day, tens of thousands gathered in Jaleh Square to voice their discontent with the Shah's regime. In a move that would become infamous, government forces opened fire on the unarmed demonstrators, leading to a horrific loss of life and igniting further unrest nationwide.

In the aftermath of Black Friday, the public outrage intensified, leading to larger and more organized demonstrations. The events solidified opposition to the Shah and caused many undecided citizens to join the growing movement. Various factions, including secular nationalists, leftists, and Islamist groups, began to coalesce against the monarchy. The brutal nature of the crackdown demonstrated the regime’s unwillingness to tolerate dissent and further alienated it from a significant portion of the population. This marked a turning point in the revolution, as it galvanized support for Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the leading opposition figure, who would soon return to Iran from exile and assume leadership in the struggle against the Pahlavi regime.