Mass Public Weddings in Tehran as Part of State "Self-Sacrifice" Scheme

Iranian authorities held mass public weddings in Tehran for couples enrolled in a state-sponsored "self-sacrifice" scheme, which involves pledging readiness to sacrifice their lives in the war with the U.S. and Israel.

The ceremonies took place on May 18, 2026, in several major squares in the capital. Over 100 couples gathered in Imam Hossein square in central Tehran, according to Iranian media reports broadcast on state TV. The event was part of efforts to boost wartime morale.

Key Details

• Couples arrived in military jeeps with mounted machine guns and were married on a stage by a cleric, as shown in AFP images.
• The stage featured balloons and a large image of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.
• The "self-sacrifice" scheme involves pledges to put lives at risk, e.g., forming human chains outside power stations.
• Iranian authorities claim millions, including top figures, have signed up for the scheme.
• The mass wedding coincided with similar pro-government gatherings held almost daily since the war began.

Statements from Participants

"Certainly, the country is at war, but young people also have the right to marry."

— A young woman in a white bridal dress

"We received their blessings. Furthermore, we came to offer our best wishes to the people in the streets."

— A groom, noting the occasion marked the anniversary of the marriage of Imam Ali and Fatima

Context: The "Jan-fada" Scheme

The term "Jan-fada" (self-sacrificing) refers to individuals prepared to take up arms and sacrifice their lives to defend the Islamic Republic in the event of a military attack.