Iran Announces 14 Million Defense Volunteers Amid US Deadline

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced Tuesday that more than 14 million citizens have volunteered to sacrifice their lives in defense of the country, a figure that doubles previous official estimates and comes amid heightened tensions with the United States over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The statement, posted on social media, preceded by hours a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump for potential strikes on Iranian infrastructure if the vital waterway is not reopened by 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

Pezeshkian emphasized national unity in his message, stating, "More than 14 million Iranian people have declared their readiness to sacrifice their lives in the self-sacrificing campaign. I too have been, am, and will remain ready to give my life for Iran." Officials have encouraged volunteers through text messages and media campaigns, with the number rising from 7 million reported just days earlier. Iran's population stands at around 90 million, and the mobilization reflects efforts to bolster morale and deter foreign intervention amid ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes.

In a parallel effort, Iranian authorities called on young people, athletes, artists, students, and...