Iranian authorities have called on young people across the country to form human chains around power plants, in an unprecedented move aimed at protecting critical infrastructure from potential foreign strikes.
The appeal comes as tensions escalate sharply with the United States, following warnings by U.S. President Donald Trump that Iran’s energy infrastructure could be targeted if Tehran fails to comply with demands to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials framed the initiative as a peaceful act of national solidarity, urging citizens from various sectors, including students, athletes, artists and academics, to participate in the coordinated gatherings.
The call was issued as part of a broader campaign to mobilize public support in the face of growing fears of large-scale military escalation targeting civilian infrastructure.
According to state-backed messaging, the human chains are intended to symbolically shield key energy facilities and signal that such sites are national assets belonging to all Iranians and future generations.
The move follows explicit threats from Washington to strike power plants and bridges if Iran does not meet a set deadline tied to maritime security in the Gulf.
Reports indicate that authorities even designated a specific time for the gatherings, highlighting the organized nature of the initiative and its nationwide scope.
The strategy underscores Tehran’s effort to deter attacks by increasing the political and humanitarian costs of targeting such facilities.
At the same time, the initiative has drawn concern among observers, who warn that involving civilians in proximity to potential military targets raises serious legal and ethical questions.
International reactions have intensified as the rhetoric surrounding possible strikes on civilian infrastructure has triggered warnings about violations of international law.
Legal experts and officials in several countries have cautioned that deliberate attacks on power plants and public utilities could constitute war crimes under established conventions.
Despite mounting pressure, Iran has signaled defiance, insisting it will not yield to threats and emphasizing its readiness to respond to any escalation.
The human chain campaign also reflects a broader attempt by Iranian authorities to demonstrate domestic unity and resilience amid an increasingly volatile regional environment.
As the deadline set by Washington approaches, the situation remains highly tense, with the involvement of civilians highlighting how the confrontation is expanding beyond military and diplomatic arenas into society at large.
