Iranian Revolutionary Guard members are conducting public weapons training sessions in Tehran, teaching civilians how to handle assault rifles amid rising tensions with the United States. The demonstrations have become increasingly common in Iran's capital, featuring military vehicles with mounted machine guns in parades and weapons displays at public events.

The weapons training sessions divide male and female participants into separate classes, where Revolutionary Guard trainers demonstrate how to handle Kalashnikov-style assault rifles. Participants who complete the course receive a card proving they have received basic firearms training. However, the training appears rudimentary, with some participants struggling with basic weapon handling procedures.

Iranian officials have promoted a campaign called "Janfada," meaning "ones who sacrifice their lives," encouraging public participation through state television and government text messages. Officials claim more than 30 million people from Iran's 90-million population have volunteered through online forms or public gatherings, though this figure cannot be independently verified.

The weapons displays occur as President Trump has threatened to restart conflict with Iran if negotiations fail and Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has previously suggested American forces could seize Iran's uranium stockpile by force and has indicated support for arming anti-government protesters.

The public demonstrations extend beyond Tehran to rural areas, where a recent government-organized event featured nomads carrying various weapons ranging from British Empire-era rifles to older firearms. Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi has criticized the displays, particularly footage showing young boys handling assault rifles.

The weapons training represents a shift from previous norms in Iran, where such public military instruction was uncommon. The displays appear designed to project strength during ongoing regional tensions while providing reassurance to government supporters amid economic challenges including mass layoffs and rising prices for essential goods.