In an unusual scene, Iranian women were seen carrying Kalashnikov rifles and riding armored vehicles in the streets of several Iranian cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, and Qom. This national display is promoted by state media as evidence of women's involvement in the country's war efforts.
The clips, allegedly filmed in Rasht, Bushehr, and Qazvin, show women in organized parades alongside members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, who were chanting pro-regime slogans. Some of these videos were broadcast on Iranian television, where media linked to the Revolutionary Guard described them as part of what is termed 'Women’s Jihad' to support the Islamic Republic.
Details of the Event
However, some clips have raised questions about their credibility, as researchers and social media users pointed out visual inconsistencies that may suggest the content was produced or altered using artificial intelligence techniques. Euronews was unable to independently verify the authenticity of these videos, and Iranian authorities have not acknowledged any of the material as fake.
Notably, some of the women featured in the clips were not wearing the full hijab as mandated by Iranian laws, which drew attention given Tehran's long history of enforcing dress codes. The use of women in state media narratives is not new for the Islamic Republic, as they have been portrayed since the 1979 revolution as 'mothers of martyrs' and as volunteers in the Basij paramilitary forces, often in supportive roles.
Background & Context
During the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s, such imagery was widely utilized. However, armed displays in the streets are considered a departure from this traditional pattern. These clips emerged at a time when Iran is facing its worst internal crisis in decades amid ongoing warfare.
Before the current conflict with the United States and Israel, protests erupted in December 2025 due to the collapse of the national currency, spreading to at least 180 cities before security forces launched a crackdown on January 8 and 9, 2026, resulting in thousands of deaths. The Supreme National Security Council of Iran estimated the death toll at 3,117, while the UN Special Rapporteur on Iran stated the number could reach 5,000, with insiders fearing the count may exceed 32,000.
Impact & Consequences
These events come at a time when the Iranian regime is seeking to demonstrate mixed popular support along with religious fervor to counter the American and Israeli assault, aiming to project an alleged image of stability for the regime. The Iranian government has maintained an internet blackout since January 8, complicating the situation further.
These armed displays by women are part of the regime's strategy to reshape the image of women in Iranian society, portraying them as part of national efforts, which may reflect an attempt to bolster domestic support amid challenging circumstances.
Regional Significance
These events hold significant implications for the region, reflecting rising tensions in the Middle East and their impact on communities. The use of women in such displays can be seen as an attempt by the Iranian regime to expand its influence and impact in neighboring countries, raising concerns among Arab nations.
In conclusion, these developments illustrate how Iran seeks to enhance its internal and external image during times of crisis, warranting close monitoring by the international community.