Iran steps up military training for women in strategic move against US 

TEHRAN: The conflict in West Asia has been continuing for nearly eight months. With the United States and Iran now engaged in direct confrontation, the economic situation is being thrown into turmoil not only across the region but also in countries around the world. Amid the escalating tensions, there are hints that Iran has begun training women as a precautionary measure to prepare for a possible ground war if the United States, which is currently carrying out air and naval attacks, launches a ground offensive.

Women have reportedly been receiving training at a military training centre at Imam Hussein Square in Tehran, including instruction on how to use handguns and other

weapons. The training reportedly began after Iran opened a military training centre for the public at Haft-e Tir Square. Reports say most of the women volunteered for the training because they wanted to be prepared to protect their families in an emergency. US President Donald Trump's warning that a decision on Iran's future would be made soon is also believed to have prompted them to undergo the training.

Responding to Trump's warning, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, ‘If the enemy moves forward with military action, our response will be strong. We will defend ourselves by deploying more forces.’

Araghchi also indicated that the issue could not be resolved through military action and that a solution could only be achieved through negotiations. However, not only have diplomatic efforts failed to materialise, but both sides have continued their military operations. It is amid these escalating tensions that Iranian women have reportedly begun receiving military training.