Iranian authorities are operating weapons-training booths in Tehran to teach civilians how to use firearms [1, 2].

The initiative reflects a shift toward mobilizing the general population in response to escalating regional tensions. By providing physical and psychological preparation, the government aims to ensure that non-military residents can contribute to national defense if conflict returns to the region.

Officials have deployed these training stations across the capital city [1, 2]. The booths serve as instructional hubs where military instructors demonstrate the proper handling and operation of various firearms to the public. This effort is designed to bridge the gap between professional military capabilities and civilian readiness, a move that signals a high level of anticipation regarding future hostilities.

According to reports, the primary objective of the program is to prepare civilians both physically and psychologically for a possible renewed war [1, 2]. The training is not limited to a specific demographic, allowing a broad cross-section of Tehran's population to engage with the weaponry. This approach suggests a strategy of total societal mobilization, where the line between combatants and non-combatants is blurred to increase the cost of any potential invasion.

While the specific number of participants has not been disclosed, the presence of these booths in public spaces indicates a state-sanctioned effort to normalize armed readiness among the urban population [1, 2]. The government has not specified a timeline for how long these training exercises will remain active or if they will expand to other major cities beyond Tehran.

“Iranian authorities are operating weapons-training booths in Tehran to teach civilians how to use firearms.”

The decision to arm and train civilians in a capital city suggests that Iranian leadership views the risk of direct conventional warfare as a significant possibility. By transitioning from a purely professional defense posture to one involving civilian militias, Iran is signaling a 'total defense' strategy. This move is likely intended to serve as a deterrent to adversaries by demonstrating that any potential ground incursion would face resistance from the general population, not just the regular army.