Iran Expands Public Weapons Training Amid Rising Trump Threats

Members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard are now regularly teaching ordinary citizens in Tehran how to use Kalashnikov-style assault rifles. Military parades across the capital increasingly feature vehicles mounted with Soviet-era belt-fed machine guns. At one recent mass wedding ceremony, a ballistic missile — similar to those used in attacks involving cluster munitions against Israel — was even displayed prominently on stage.

The growing public display of weapons in Tehran reflects a broader atmosphere of defiance as U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Washington could resume military action against Iran if negotiations collapse and Tehran refuses to loosen its control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The military demonstrations also highlight what Iranian authorities view as a genuine threat. Trump has suggested that U.S. forces could seize Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium by force if necessary. He had previously claimed that weapons were sent to Kurdish fighters to support anti-government protesters inside Iran.

At the same time, the public weapons displays appear aimed at reassuring and motivating Iran’s hard-line supporters during a period of severe economic uncertainty. Many Iranians are struggling with mass layoffs, business closures, and soaring prices for food, medicine, and other essential goods.

Analysts say the increasing militarization of public spaces may also serve as a warning against renewed anti-government demonstrations. Earlier this year, Iranian authorities violently suppressed nationwide protests in a crackdown that activists claim killed more than 7,000 people and led to the detention of tens of thousands.

“This is necessary for all our people to get trained because we are in a war situation these days,” said Ali Mofidi, a 47-year-old resident of Tehran attending a weapons training session Tuesday night. “If necessary, everyone should be available and know how to use a gun.”