Iranians rally in biggest show of defiance against US since war began

Hundreds of thousands of Iranians marched in Tehran on Friday in a government-organised rally. Officials said 313,000 people joined the event in the capital. The figure could not be checked by outside observers. The government used the rally to show off a new volunteer force. Volunteers wore combat uniforms, and some carried flags and weapons. Iran also displayed drones and anti-aircraft guns. Leaders said the force will get limited military training and support the Revolutionary Guard and the Basij militia.

Iran has been in conflict with the United States and Israel. Tensions grew during the recent war, and Iran is under many international sanctions. The government often holds rallies to show public support in hard times. The volunteer campaign is called Janfada-ye-Iran. That means roughly 'those who sacrifice their lives for Iran'. A Revolutionary Guard chief said more than 600,000 people have signed up, and over a million may take part in training.

A huge volunteer force could make any new war deadlier and longer. It also signals that Iran is preparing for more fighting rather than peace talks.