Iranian women are taking part in military and emergency-response training in Tehran as part of the government-backed Janfada, or “Devoted to Iran,” mobilisation campaign.
Footage from recent activities shows women attending lectures, taking part in practical exercises and, in some cases, handling rifles under supervision. Participants say the training is intended to prepare civilians for emergencies and contribute to the country’s defence.
The Janfada campaign was launched in late March and has since expanded into a broader civilian mobilisation programme. Iranian officials say more than 31 million people have registered, with women making up about 32 percent of participants. Those figures have not been independently verified, and outside reporting has questioned the registration data.
The programme is not limited to military roles. Organisers say volunteers can also support rescue and relief operations, social services, cultural and media activities, and financial assistance.
Iranian authorities have also announced plans to organise 1,000 national resistance battalions and expand military and emergency-response training.
A major Janfada exercise was held in Tehran on September 18, with women and other volunteers participating in a state-organised military-style event.
The mobilisation comes amid continuing tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel, as Tehran promotes greater civilian preparedness and participation in national defence.
