Iran Trains Women for Combat Amid Tensions With US and Israel

Iran has initiated training courses for women in combat roles, preparing them for potential conflict with the United States and Israel. The training includes operating weapons and urban warfare tactics, as depicted in recent Iranian media footage showing women, some in military attire, practicing these skills. This initiative is part of a mass mobilization movement called "Jaan Fada," meaning "those who sacrifice their lives," launched in response to ongoing tensions with the US and Israel. The training is reportedly conducted by Basij forces, known for their role in suppressing recent protests.

According to Sasan Zare, a spokesperson for the program, over 500,000 women registered for the "National Resistance" battalions within 100 minutes of registration opening, filling the first 1,000 units. Due to high demand, authorities approved the establishment of an additional 1,000 units for female combatants. Zare also stated that organizers plan to create 1,000 local aid and rescue units, in coordination with the Red Crescent, with women expected to form a significant portion of the volunteers.

Furthermore, Zare claimed that numerous foreign nationals, including US citizens, have expressed a desire to join the initiative to fight against the US and Israel should hostilities resume. This program unfolds against a backdrop of threats from senior Iranian military and government officials, such as Iranian Army Commander Amir Hatami, who stated that Iran would deliver a "crushing blow" in response to any new attack.