Iran has opened a military training camp for women in Tehran as tensions with the United States continue. The camp is located at Azadi Square and is run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Women volunteers are learning how to handle weapons, climb down walls and complete military exercises. Iranian officials say the training will help prepare civilians for a possible U.S. ground attack. The programme also teaches emergency response and other support skills.
Iranian Women Take Part in Military Exercises
The camp is called Janfada, which means “Sacrifice for the Homeland” in Persian. During the training, women carried assault rifles, practised aiming sniper rifles and climbed down walls using ropes. Some participants also crossed a training area on zip lines. Iranian media have described Janfada as the country’s first military training centre designed specifically for women. Officials say the aim is to help volunteers develop basic defence skills and respond to emergencies.
Iran Plans 1,500 Military Training Centres
The women’s camp is part of a larger campaign that began in March 2026. Iran launched the programme amid reports of a possible U.S. ground operation. Registration opened on March 28. Organisers claim that more than 31 million people have joined the campaign. However, this number has not been independently confirmed. In early November, Basij officials announced plans to open 1,500 training centres across the country. Their goal is to train 1 million volunteers. The centres will provide military instruction, emergency training and support skills.
Analysts Raise Concerns About the Campaign
The U.S.-based Critical Threats Project says the Janfada campaign could also help Iran recruit more people into its security forces. Analysts believe the programme may strengthen government control during the ongoing conflict. It could also help authorities respond to protests and other security challenges. The IRGC says its first Janfada brigade has already received weapons and training. The group is expected to operate in southern and western Iran between November 19 and 25.
Military Training Begins Amid U.S.-Iran Tensions
The new camp comes as relations between Iran and the United States remain tense. Iran has maintained restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while both countries continue to disagree over regional security. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has said Tehran remains open to an agreement if Washington avoids excessive demands. Meanwhile, Iranian authorities continue expanding their volunteer training programme. The women’s camp is part of that effort, although its long-term role and effectiveness remain unclear.
