Iran’s largest pro‑regime rally draws hundreds of thousands

In a massive display of national unity, Iranian volunteers marched through Tehran, pledging to defend the country amid ongoing US‑Israeli strikes. The event, part of a new volunteer force, showcased military hardware and attracted senior officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 18 Sep 2026 20:02:22 GMT

On Friday, Tehran’s streets filled with a sea of combat‑uniformed volunteers, flags, and the sound of marching boots. The rally, organized by the Iranian government, was billed as the largest pro‑regime demonstration since the February escalation with the United States and Israel. Thousands of citizens from across the country joined the march, pledging their readiness to take up arms in a new volunteer initiative called Janfada‑ye‑Iran, or “those who sacrifice their lives for Iran.”

What Happened

The rally began in downtown Tehran, where participants marched in straight lines, some carrying rifles and others waving the national flag. The procession passed government buildings and military installations, drawing cheers from onlookers. The event was broadcast live on state television, with the President Masoud Pezeshkian addressing the crowd from a podium. Senior military officials, including the head of the Revolutionary Guard, General Hassan Hassanzadeh, and the newly appointed Basij commander Hossein Taeb, also spoke to the assembled volunteers.

During the speeches, officials highlighted the new volunteer force’s role as an additional layer of security alongside the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij militia. The volunteers would receive limited military and emergency response training, with the aim of bolstering Iran’s defensive posture amid ongoing regional tensions.

Background and Context

Iran’s economy has been under severe pressure due to a US naval blockade of its ports and a wave of fresh sanctions. The blockade has disrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. In addition, the United States has targeted digital currency networks that allegedly provide sanctioned Iranian entities with access to the international financial system.

These economic challenges were a key driver behind the mass protests that erupted in December, which quickly evolved into a broader challenge to the Islamic Republic’s political system. While the state claims about 3,000 casualties, activists report that the crackdown killed more than 7,000 people and detained tens of thousands.

The volunteer mobilisation campaign began in early April, at the height of US‑Israeli attacks. According to Iranian authorities, more than 30 million people—roughly a third of the country’s 86‑million population—have registered online or at public gatherings to lay down their lives for the theocracy. The current rally is part of that broader strategy to demonstrate national unity and readiness to defend the nation.

Key Figures and Statements

President Masoud Pezeshkian opened the rally with a speech that framed the event as a message to the United States and Israel. He emphasized that Iran is united and ready to defend itself “to the very end.”

Basij commander Hossein Taeb declared that the volunteers would be a “nightmare” for Iran’s enemies and would stand ready for “full‑fledged defence.” He also promised that similar demonstrations would soon take place in other cities.

General Hassan Hassanzadeh, head of the IRGC, told state broadcaster IRIB that over 600,000 people had signed up for the volunteer programme, and he predicted that participation would eventually exceed one million. State media estimated that the crowd on Friday morning numbered over 300,000 people.

Military Display and Symbolism

The rally served as a showcase of Iran’s military capabilities. Drones, anti‑aircraft batteries, and unmanned aerial vehicles were displayed along the route. Female Guard members in black headscarves were positioned behind truck‑mounted heavy machine guns, underscoring the regime’s emphasis on gender inclusion in its armed forces.

Participants also trampled American and Israeli flags while chanting slogans such as “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.” A 24‑year‑old volunteer, Marzieh Afaghi, addressed the crowd, saying, “We Iranians have no fear about your threats against our homeland.”

International Reactions and Ongoing Developments

While the rally projected an image of unity, it also highlighted Iran’s strained relations with the West. The United States has intensified its sanctions campaign, targeting digital currency networks and maritime shipping. In a separate briefing, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a vessel was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, igniting an onboard fire that the crew managed to extinguish.

Iran’s state television announced an attack on the oil tanker Trend, a Togo‑flagged vessel, citing an “illegal attempt” to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. The incident added to the already reduced maritime traffic in the region, which remains roughly 90% lower than before the war.

What Happens Next?

The government plans to begin training the volunteers with assault rifles shortly after the rally. The new recruits are expected to provide an extra layer of security alongside the IRGC and Basij militia, which has previously played a central role in quashing anti‑government demonstrations.

Hard‑liners within the leadership, such as Basij commander Hossein Taeb, are strengthening their ability to suppress potential future internal protests. The regime’s strategy appears to be twofold: to deter external aggression and to consolidate internal control.

As the war continues, the Iranian public’s willingness to mobilise on a mass scale remains a critical factor in shaping the country’s future. The outcome of the volunteer training program and the regime’s ability to maintain cohesion will likely influence both domestic stability and regional dynamics.

Key facts

Hundreds of thousands marched in Tehran to pledge readiness to defend Iran.
The rally is part of a new volunteer force, Janfada‑ye‑Iran, aimed at bolstering national security.
Senior officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, General Hassan Hassanzadeh and Basij commander Hossein Taeb, addressed the crowd.
The event showcased military hardware, including drones and anti‑aircraft batteries, and highlighted female participation in the armed forces.
Iran’s economy remains under strain from a US naval blockade and fresh sanctions, fueling domestic unrest.
The rally also served as a platform for anti‑American and anti‑Israeli slogans, reflecting the regime’s hard‑line stance.
The government plans to begin training volunteers soon, with the goal of creating an additional security layer alongside the IRGC and Basij militia.

Why it matters

The rally signals Iran’s resolve to defend itself amid escalating tensions and economic hardship, while also showcasing the regime’s strategy to consolidate internal power and deter external threats.

Frequently asked questions

What is Janfada‑ye‑Iran?

It is a volunteer initiative launched by the Iranian government, inviting citizens to receive limited military training and pledge readiness to defend the country.

How many people signed up for the volunteer programme?

According to the IRGC chief, over 600,000 people have signed up, with expectations that participation will eventually exceed one million.

What role does the Basij play in the rally?

The Basij, a paramilitary force, participated in the march and will provide an additional layer of security alongside the IRGC.

What was the economic context behind the rally?

Iran’s economy is under severe pressure from a US naval blockade and new sanctions, which have contributed to domestic unrest.

What happened in the Strait of Hormuz during the rally?

Iran’s state television announced an attack on the oil tanker Trend, and the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported a projectile strike on a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.