Context

Amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian announced a massive volunteer mobilization effort reportedly exceeding 12 million sign-ups. The campaign, led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Basij, has drawn global attention as images of large rallies circulate. However, concerns have intensified over reports of minors being recruited, with criticism from figures like Mike Waltz and organizations such as Human Rights Watch. Are these mobilization efforts a legitimate national response to external threats, or do they raise serious ethical and legal questions? And without independent verification, how credible are the reported numbers and narratives?