Iran's authorities are significantly expanding a public mobilization campaign, dubbed Janfada or "those who sacrifice their life," to arm and train civilians. The initiative, which aims to bolster the state security apparatus against perceived domestic and foreign threats, is being rolled out nationwide amidst heightened concerns over potential renewed conflict with the United States and Israel.

The Janfada campaign was initially launched in late March during the height of hostilities with the US and Israel. It is now being extended across many regions of Iran, seeking to attract both male and female volunteers, with a particular focus on engaging the youth, though participation is open to all age groups. Representatives from the Basij militia, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and other state bodies are establishing street booths and stations to offer training in weapon usage and other equipment necessary for defending the government and its "revolutionary" values.

State-organized events and armed "exercises" linked to the mobilization effort have been conducted in numerous cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, Zanjan, Shiraz, Kerman, Mashhad, Bojnord, and Ahvaz. Ali Kowsari, Basij's deputy for training, recently announced plans for the IRGC to utilize at least 14 main squares in Tehran as training and equipment hubs for Janfada volunteers. The stated objective is to establish one to three similar stations in the capital city of each of Iran's 31 provinces.

The expansion of this campaign suggests a proactive stance by Iranian authorities in preparing its populace for potential escalations. The focus on civilian training and armament indicates a strategy to create a broader defensive network, potentially serving as a reserve force or a means of asserting internal control and national resilience in the face of external pressures.

Reports from various provinces indicate the pervasive nature of the campaign. A resident from Gilan province described regular sightings of state-run stations in both large and small cities, where volunteers receive instruction on handling weapons. These stations reportedly include demonstrations with live ammunition, teaching participants how to load firearms, assemble and disassemble pistols and assault rifles, and practice aiming and firing techniques.

These state-organized events often occur during nighttime, featuring rallies and daytime motorcades, accompanied by revolutionary music and chants from loudspeakers. In one instance in Rasht, the capital of Gilan province, residents reportedly voiced objections to the noise and street closures associated with a pro-government gathering on October 15. Social media videos emerged showing a confrontation that escalated into a physical altercation, though authorities have not officially commented on the incident.

The IRGC's intensified investment in the Janfada campaign reflects a strategic effort to integrate civilian readiness into national security plans. The campaign's name itself, "those who sacrifice their life," underscores the high stakes and ideological underpinnings of this national mobilization drive, aiming to foster a spirit of unwavering commitment among the population.

Further details regarding the total number of volunteers recruited or the specific types of threats the campaign is designed to counter remain undisclosed. The ongoing implementation across numerous provinces, however, signals a significant and sustained effort by Iranian authorities to prepare its citizens for various contingencies.