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Tehran Recruits Children for Basij Militia Amid Conflict

4/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Tehran authorities launched a recruitment campaign allowing children as young as 12 to join the Basij youth volunteer militia under the 'For Iran' drive amid conflict.
An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official announced on March 26 that these youths will help man checkpoints and patrols.
Residents report armed teenagers at checkpoints across Tehran.
The recruitment drive reflects heightened tensions after the war with the United States and Israel.

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Story summary

The Tehran authorities launched a recruitment campaign allowing children as young as 12 to join the Basij youth volunteer militia under the 'For Iran' drive amid conflict.
An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official announced on March 26 that these youths will help man checkpoints and patrols.
Residents report armed teenagers at checkpoints across Tehran.
The recruitment drive reflects heightened tensions after the war with the United States and Israel.