WANA (May 02) – More than 50 percent of eligible citizens have joined Iran’s “JanFada” (“Devoted Lives”) campaign, according to its spokesperson, making it one of the largest public mobilization drives in the country in recent years.

 

Sasan Zare, spokesperson for the campaign, said at a press conference in Tehran that more than 31.3 million people have registered so far. He said the initiative was created to demonstrate public readiness to defend the country and contribute in different national sectors.

 

The “JanFada” campaign emerged after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran beginning on February 28, 2026, amid rising concerns over a broader regional conflict. Organizers say its purpose is to showcase domestic unity and national preparedness.

 

Zare said participants range in age from 12 to 60, adding that more than half of all eligible citizens had taken part in the campaign.

 

A Historic Scale of Participation

The number has drawn attention even in historical terms. During the eight-year Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, around two million volunteers joined the front lines — roughly 5 to 6 percent of Iran’s population at the time.

 

By contrast, registration of more than 31 million people in just a few days represents over 30 percent of Iran’s current population of around 90 million. Analysts say this reflects a different level of social mobilization under current conditions.

People attend a rally in Tehran, Iran, April 29, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Nationwide Marches Across Iran

As the campaign expanded, Tehran and several other Iranian cities witnessed nationwide marches on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, in support of “JanFada.”

 

In Tehran, the route from Imam Hossein Square to Azadi Square was filled with large crowds carrying Iranian flags and chanting slogans.

 

Families, young people, and teenagers marched together in an atmosphere marked by public songs, organized programs, and volunteer service stations.

 

Reports said similar gatherings were held simultaneously in multiple cities, which organizers described as a sign of national cohesion and a public response to recent regional developments.

 

 

Who Joined?

According to campaign officials, 65 percent of registrants were men and 35 percent were women. Around 60 percent were between 20 and 45 years old, while half held university degrees.

 

Zare added that 40 percent of participants said they were ready to take part in military-related roles, 20 percent volunteered for relief and service work, and another 20 percent signed up for educational and cultural activities.

 

He also said 98 percent of participants stated they were willing to dedicate time to solving national challenges, with 64 percent saying they could contribute more than 10 hours per week.

 

In addition, 60 percent of registrants reportedly had no previous experience in volunteer activities, a figure officials described as evidence of new social engagement.