This week, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), labeled a terrorist organization by the United States, announced a campaign to recruit boys as young as 12 for checkpoints and patrols aimed at controlling Iranian citizens.
Dubbed the “For Iran” campaign, this initiative seems designed to bolster the ongoing repression of dissent and prepare individuals for a potential ground invasion by the U.S. or Israel. Despite longstanding evidence against Iran’s recruitment of minors as security personnel—which violates international laws—the campaign seems like a heightened effort to reinforce governmental control.
Reports indicate that Rahim Nadari, a member of the Revolutionary Guards, mentioned that the organization is expanding its recruitment efforts, focusing on indoctrinating young individuals to combat “global bullies,” with a clear reference to the United States.
He pointed out that many young people, including teenagers, are keen on joining, which led them to lower the eligibility age to 12. “There are kids aged 12 and 13 who wish to get involved,” he stated, referring to the numerous youth at various checkpoints.
The roles assigned to these young recruits reportedly include “operational patrols” and gathering security data, intended to intimidate the populace.
This campaign appears to reinforce Iran’s ongoing strategy of utilizing children for various oppressive and militant purposes. In a 2018 address, then-U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley outlined how Iran “celebrates” the use of child soldiers, particularly within the Revolutionary Guards.
She detailed that the Basij Resistance Army—a paramilitary group associated with the IRGC—not only suppresses dissent and fortifies internal security but also trains school children and gives combat training to those as young as 12. These children may then be compelled to fight abroad for the Revolutionary Guards.
Independent news outlet Iran International reported that during the protests in 2022, sparked by the violent death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, residents noted the involvement of children in the crackdown.
Images shared on social media depicted minors in military-style attire during the civil unrest, prompting criticism from advocates for children’s rights.
Iran is presently entangled in a conflict with the United States and Israel, which escalated after President Donald Trump announced “Operation Epic Fury” on February 28. This also included the ousting of “Supreme Leader” Ali Khamenei. Iran has since indicated the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the former leader, yet his public absence has stirred doubts regarding his health and capability.
Observers in Tehran have noted an uptick in checkpoints searching for signs of rebellion or ties to the United States, with some of the personnel being teenagers.
One resident named Kaveh recounted how military trucks loaded with weapons block roads, while nearby, vehicles containing teenagers with submachine guns carry out stops.
The Iranian government announced the arrest of 466 individuals believed to be involved in online activities threatening national security. They were reported to be inciting confusion, fear, and spreading propaganda supportive of enemy entities.
President Trump has expressed his intention to de-escalate tensions with Iran, with ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving hostilities. He announced the suspension of military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure until April 6, coinciding with the Christian Holy Week.
Trump mentioned that negotiations were progressing well, despite contrary claims from the media, and remarked that Iran has a chance for a deal that will benefit both parties.
Iranian state media, however, has dismissed the reports of negotiations, insisting that the country is preparing for a prolonged conflict with the U.S.
