Iran holds mass weddings for couples pledging ‘sacrifice’ amid war tensions -

Iranian authorities on Monday organised mass wedding ceremonies in Tehran for hundreds of couples who joined a state-backed campaign declaring readiness to sacrifice their lives in the event of a potential war involving the United States and Israel.

The ceremonies, staged across major public squares in the Iranian capital, were part of the “Janfada” initiative, which translates to “self-sacrifice.

” According to Iranian media, participants pledged support for the country during wartime, including volunteering to help protect strategic facilities and national infrastructure.

State television aired footage of the colourful celebrations, showing newlyweds arriving in military vehicles decorated with flowers and balloons as officials attempted to boost public morale amid growing regional tensions and a fragile ceasefire involving Iran, the US and Israel.

At Imam Hossein Square alone, more than 100 couples exchanged vows before large crowds, clerics and supporters, while reports indicated that about 1,000 couples participated in similar ceremonies across Tehran.

The wedding venues were decorated with patriotic symbols and large portraits of Iran’s Supreme Leader, as supporters waved flowers and applauded the couples during the public celebrations.

One bride told local media that despite the tense atmosphere, young people still deserved the chance to build families and celebrate marriage.

“Certainly, the country is at war, but young people also have the right to marry,” she said.
A groom described the occasion as especially symbolic because it coincided with the anniversary of the marriage of Imam Ali and Fatima, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad, a significant date for Shia Muslims.

The ceremonies come amid continued pro-government rallies and mobilisation campaigns organised by Iranian authorities following months of heightened military tensions and fears of renewed conflict with the United States and Israel.