Authorities in Iran have reportedly begun recruiting children as young as 12 to support security operations in the capital, Tehran, amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
According to a Revolutionary Guards official, Rahim Nadali, the recruitment is part of a campaign known as “For Iran,” which aims to mobilise citizens to assist security forces.
The initiative reportedly lowers the minimum age requirement to 12, allowing young teenagers to participate.
Nadali said the recruits are expected to support the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij by carrying out duties such as gathering security information, participating in patrols, and coordinating night-time activities across the city.
He explained that the decision followed a surge in interest from younger volunteers. “Considering the ages of those requesting to join, we have now lowered the minimum age to 12 years old, because children aged 12–13 want to be involved,” he said.
Residents have reported an increased presence of checkpoints across Tehran since the conflict escalated, with some claiming that teenagers in civilian clothing have been seen manning these posts while carrying weapons.
One resident described seeing multiple checkpoints staffed by both official security personnel and young individuals, saying vehicles are routinely stopped and searched across the city.
“When a missile hits somewhere, the area is immediately sealed off,” the resident said, adding that young individuals have been seen directing civilians and enforcing movement restrictions.
Another resident reported that groups of supporters of the Islamic republic drive through the streets at night, using loudspeakers and flags to rally public support.
The developments have raised concerns about the role of minors in security operations, particularly in a conflict environment where risks remain high.
What you should know
Reports indicate that Iran has lowered the recruitment age for security support roles to 12, amid ongoing conflict.
Young volunteers are reportedly assisting with patrols, checkpoints, and surveillance activities in Tehran. The move follows increased interest from teenagers but raises concerns about the involvement of minors in security operations.
The situation highlights the intensity of the conflict and the pressure on internal security structures, as authorities seek broader public participation in maintaining order.
