Amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, reports of large-scale civilian firearms training programs in Iran have drawn widespread international attention. Videos circulating on social media show Iranian youth, including women, undergoing weapons training as fears of a possible military confrontation continue to rise in the region.
One of the viral videos reportedly shows young Iranian women learning to dismantle and reassemble AK-47 rifles with precision, while separate visuals from Tehran depict large groups of men and youth being trained in handling assault weapons. According to local reports, many civilians are voluntarily participating in the drills to prepare themselves for defending the country in the event of a potential ground attack.
Iranian state media stated that defense training sessions are being conducted in mosques across several cities for both men and women. The training programs reportedly focus on the use of light weapons and basic self-defense techniques. Iranian government television described the initiative as part of a broader effort to prepare citizens to safeguard the country during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions.
According to Iranian media outlets, the campaign has been launched under the title “Jan Fida Baraye Iran,” meaning “Ready to Sacrifice Lives for Iran.” Officials said the initiative aims to unite citizens in support of the Islamic Republic amid ongoing hostilities involving the United States and Israel. State media also claimed that public participation has been significant, with nearly 31 million citizens reportedly registering for the program.
Earlier, another video from Iranian state television had sparked global discussion after showing a news anchor holding an AK-47 rifle during a live broadcast while a man in military attire demonstrated how to operate the weapon. Since then, similar military-style civilian training activities have reportedly expanded to public spaces and religious centers across Iran, highlighting the country’s increased focus on civilian preparedness amid rising regional uncertainty.