Hundreds of thousands of Iranians rallied in Tehran, pledging to fight, as the nation faces a US naval blockade and sanctions. Iran also launched a new attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, while Riyadh Airport reportedly saw smoke and flames. Volunteers are enlisting for military instruction amid escalating tensions.
Hundreds of thousands of Iranians took to the streets of Tehran on Friday in a massive government-organized display of defiance as they pledged their readiness to take up arms in the largest demonstration since the war began in February. Tehran is seeking to project national unity as its economy struggles under the weight of a US naval blockade and fresh sanctions. The Iranian government simultaneously reported launching a new attack on a commercial vessel in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage it has attempted to control since the war began. Varying reports emerged regarding the headcount of volunteers enlisting for limited military instruction to safeguard the nation in an initiative dubbed "Janfaday-e Iran," or the "ones who sacrifice their lives for Iran." Dressed in combat uniforms and waving flags, participants marched through central Tehran as onlookers cheered.
