Iran’s authorities take ‘self-sacrifice’ mobilisation campaign nationwide
Summary
Iranian authorities have expanded Janfada, a nationwide volunteer mobilisation campaign that offers civilians weapons training and presents itself as a way to defend the government against domestic and foreign threats. The campaign began in late March during the war with the United States and Israel, and officials have announced plans to set up training stations in public squares across the country.Key Facts
- Janfada means “those who sacrifice their life” and is open to men and women of all ages, with a stated focus on young people.
- Basij militia representatives and other state bodies run street booths and stations where volunteers receive training on weapons and equipment.
- State-organised events and armed exercises linked to the campaign have taken place in cities across many of Iran’s 31 provinces.
- Basij training deputy Ali Kowsari said the IRGC aims to use at least 14 main squares in Tehran as Janfada training and equipment stations.
- A Gilan province resident told Al Jazeera that some stations teach people how to load ammunition and aim and fire pistols and assault rifles.
- Videos shared on social media showed a confrontation during a nighttime pro-government gathering in Rasht on October 15; authorities did not comment.
- Authorities warned residents in Karaj to expect explosions and loud noises from a Janfada exercise.
- Iranian human rights groups based abroad have described the armed mobilisation efforts as intimidation, while the government says January’s protests were a US- and Israel-orchestrated coup attempt.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
