"Sacrifice your life": Iran's campaign alarms Switzerland

Context

In brief

• The Iranian embassy in Bern issues a call for life sacrifice
• The Janfada campaign raises concern in Switzerland and other Western countries
• The FDFA has discussed with the Iranian ambassador in Bern

Key facts

• What: Call for life sacrifice
• When: May 3, 2026
• Where: Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom
• Who: Iranian embassy in Bern
• Amount: Approximately 26 million people registered (unverified data)

The Iranian embassy in Bern has issued a call urging Iranian citizens, both in the country and abroad, to 'sacrifice themselves for the homeland.' The message is part of the international campaign by the Tehran regime called Janfada, a term meaning 'I sacrifice my life' or 'self-sacrifice,' which is causing significant unease in several Western states. The campaign's symbol, reported by Nzz am Sonntag, is an image shared on the embassy's official channels: a soldier in combat uniform holding an Iranian flag. Above the image is the word 'Janfada' and an invitation to participate in the initiative. The stated goal is to show that the Iranian people would be ready to play an active role in the 'confrontation with the American-Zionist enemy' and in the 'defense of the Islamic Republic.' According to Iranian authorities, approximately 26 million people have already registered for the campaign, a figure that cannot be verified. However, according to various international reports, the message has been widely disseminated through SMS in Iran and via embassies in various countries around the world, including Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. High-level political figures have also publicly supported the initiative: President Masud Pezeshkian has stated that he is ready, like millions of Iranians, to 'sacrifice his life for the country.'

International reactions

In Germany, authorities speak of a 'mysterious recruitment campaign' by the Islamist regime, part of a broader strategy to mobilize against the 'American-Zionist enemy.' The domestic intelligence service speculates that the context is linked to Iran's fear of a possible U.S. military offensive. The reaction in the United Kingdom has been even stronger, with the government summoning the Iranian ambassador in London following content deemed 'unacceptable and incitement.' According to British media, tensions escalated after a message from the Iranian embassy on Telegram urging the 'brave sons and daughters of Iran' to register for the campaign, stating: 'We will all be ready to sacrifice our lives rather than leave our country to the enemy.' For some media outlets, including the Daily Mail, this is a clear reference to martyrdom.

Operational details

Implications for Switzerland

In Switzerland, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has confirmed awareness of the campaign and discussed it with the Iranian ambassador in Bern during regular diplomatic contacts. The FDFA reminds that foreign representations are obliged to respect international law and the laws of the host state. The Iranian embassy in Switzerland, which also shared the message on Telegram and the platform X, did not respond to media requests for clarification. In other countries, however, Iranian diplomatic representatives have stated that the campaign is exclusively 'symbolic' in nature and represents a political response to tensions with the United States and Israel, without any violent implications. An explanation that, however, appears to be in contrast with the rhetoric used in the official materials, where the theme of personal sacrifice and willingness to 'give one's life for the country' is central.

Analysis of the Situation

The concrete meaning of the campaign remains unclear and subject to divergent interpretations. In Germany, authorities speak of a 'mysterious recruitment campaign' by the Islamist regime, inserted into a broader strategy of mobilization against the 'American-Zionist enemy.' The domestic intelligence service hypothesizes that the context is related to Iran's fear of a possible U.S. military offensive. Even more decisive is the reaction of the United Kingdom, where the government has summoned the Iranian ambassador in London following content deemed 'unacceptable and inciting.' According to British press, the tension erupted after a message from the Iranian embassy on Telegram inviting the 'brave sons and daughters of Iran' to register for the campaign, stating: 'We will all be ready to sacrifice our lives rather than leave our country to the enemy.' For some media, including the Daily Mail, this would be a clear reference to martyrdom.

Possible Scenarios

In this context, the Janfada campaign fits into a communication strategy by the Iranian regime aimed at mobilizing the Iranian people against international tensions. However, the lack of clarity about the concrete meaning of the campaign and the different interpretations by Western authorities make it difficult to predict future developments. In Switzerland, the FDFA has reiterated the importance of respecting international law and local laws by foreign representations, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue with the Iranian embassy.

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Key points

What to do if you are involved

If you are Iranian citizens residing in Switzerland and have received messages related to the Janfada campaign, it is important to stay informed and cautious. The FDFA has confirmed that it is aware of the situation and is monitoring developments. In case of doubts or concerns, you can contact the competent Swiss authorities for further clarification. It is essential to respect local laws and avoid participating in initiatives that could violate international law or Swiss regulations.

Useful tools

For further information and support, you can use the tax calculator to better understand your tax obligations in Switzerland. Additionally, the health insurance comparator can help you find the health coverage most suited to your needs. If you have specific questions about your cross-border worker status, consult the residence permit guide.

Conclusion

The Janfada campaign has raised concerns in Switzerland and other Western countries. It is important to stay informed and respect local laws. Use the available tools to get support and clarification on your tax and insurance obligations in Switzerland.

Source: tio.ch