Iranians rally by the hundreds of thousands in biggest show of defiance since war began, tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/world/iran/iranians-rally-hundreds-thousands-biggest-show-defiance-war-began-rcna598500)

18-09-2026

Here is a summary of the report:

Hundreds of thousands of Iranians gathered in Tehran for a large, government-organized demonstration marking the biggest public show of defiance since conflict erupted earlier in the year.

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Key details highlighted in the coverage:

  • Mobilization and Training Campaign: The rally centered on an initiative known as “Janfaday-e Iran” (“those who sacrifice their lives for Iran”), aimed at recruiting and providing basic military and rifle training to civilian volunteers. State media and military officials reported that hundreds of thousands had signed up to form an additional auxiliary force supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij militia.

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  • Official Presence and Rhetoric: Key political and military figuresincluding Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Basij commander Hossein Taebattended the demonstration. Officials used the platform to warn adversaries that the newly trained volunteers are prepared for total defense.

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  • Public Atmosphere and Anti-Western Slogans: Crowds marched in combat gear and civilian clothing, carrying national flags, trampling American and Israeli flags, and chanting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans while voicing resolve against threats from Washington and Tel Aviv.

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  • Military Displays: The event featured exhibits of military hardware, including anti-aircraft systems, armed vehicles, and drones of the types deployed in maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

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  • Broader Context: The demonstration took place against a backdrop of severe economic strain caused by international sanctions and naval blockades, as well as lingering domestic tensions following major internal protests earlier in the year. Analysts and observers noted the state’s effort to project national solidarity and readiness for ground conflict, while also reinforcing security structures capable of deterring internal dissent.

    CompuServe.com



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