With the deadline for negotiations that U.S. President Donald Trump set for Iran approaching, Iran's government is drawing controversy for urging teenagers to form a "human chain" around power plants. Critics say it appears to be an attempt to effectively use civilians as shields.
On the 6th (local time), CNN reported that Ali Reza Raeisi, Iran's Minister of Sports and Youth, said on social media X (formerly Twitter), "I invite all youth and figures from the cultural and arts communities, athletes and champions to the 'Iran Youth Human Chain Campaign.'" He said, "Let's hold hands in front of power plants nationwide across beliefs and preferences, and shout that attacks on public infrastructure are war crimes."
The remarks are seen as an attempt to put civilians at the forefront in response to the possibility of U.S. strikes on energy infrastructure. Some analysts say Iran is deliberately highlighting the potential for civilian casualties to shift the diplomatic burden over attacks on public infrastructure onto the United States.
The same day, President Trump reaffirmed that he would keep the existing negotiation deadline. At a White House press conference, Trump warned, "If Iran does not accept the cease-fire proposal by 8 p.m. on the 7th (U.S. Eastern time), we will destroy all of Iran's bridges and power plants within four hours by midnight on the 7th."
Trump went on to say, "We can wipe out all of Iran in one night," adding, "That night could be tomorrow (the 7th) night," strongly suggesting the possibility of military action.