Why Iran is holding mass public weddings amid rising wartime tensions

Iran has organised large public wedding ceremonies across Tehran, bringing together hundreds of couples who pledged to join a state-backed programme expressing readiness to sacrifice their lives in the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. 

The events, staged late on Monday in several prominent squares in the capital, were intended to project unity and boost morale as the country remains on high alert.

According to Iranian media reports, more than 100 couples gathered in Imam Hossein Square alone, while simultaneous ceremonies were held in other major districts. State television aired the celebrations live as tensions continue against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire halting hostilities that erupted on 28 February.

Iran says millions, including political leaders such as Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Masoud Pezeshkian, have already enrolled in the “self-sacrifice” initiative, known locally as janfada.

Wartime programme framed around sacrifice

Authorities describe the janfada scheme as a voluntary pledge by citizens willing to risk their lives in wartime scenarios, with participants undertaking roles such as forming human shields around strategic infrastructure. The wedding ceremonies doubled as a public display of commitment, with newlyweds symbolising both personal and national loyalty.

Couples were driven into Imam Hossein Square in military vehicles equipped with mounted guns, before taking their vows on a stage decorated with balloons and dominated by a large image of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not made a public appearance since succeeding his father Ali Khamenei, killed on the first day of the war.

Symbolism and messaging at the ceremonies

Clerics presided over the weddings as crowds holding roses looked on, AFP images showed. Despite the wartime setting, several young participants expressed a desire for normal life to continue alongside the conflict.

One bride, dressed in a white Islamic gown, said: "Certainly, the country is at war, but young people also have the right to marry."

Another groom highlighted the religious significance of the date, saying it coincided with the anniversary of the marriage of Imam Ali and Fatima, revered figures in Shia Islam.

"We received their blessings. Furthermore, we came to offer our best wishes to the people in the streets," he said.

The news outlet Mehr reported that 110 couples took part in the ceremony at Imam Hossein Square, underscoring the scale of the government-orchestrated event.

Mobilisation tool during conflict

Since the outbreak of the war, Iranian authorities have held near-daily pro-government rallies to showcase public backing for the leadership and the military campaign. The mass weddings form part of this broader mobilisation effort, reinforcing the message that civic life and national duty can progress in parallel.

Officials argue the ceremonies demonstrate perseverance and collective strength at a time when US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened further military action against Iran, deepening concerns about renewed escalation.

(With AFP inputs)