Iran Issues Nationwide Directive for War and Ceasefire Scenarios

The Iranian Armed Forces General Staff has issued a comprehensive directive for nationwide passive defence, outlining specific measures for three distinct scenarios: full-scale war, a ceasefire, and the cessation of hostilities. According to state media reports, this ten-article order was released by Major General Ali Abdollahi, who serves as the chief of staff and chairman of the Permanent Passive Defence Committee. The document is part of the annual commemoration programmes for passive defence but marks a significant evolution in the country's approach to immediate security threats.

This latest guidance distinguishes itself from previous years by explicitly addressing the current volatile environment. While similar directives were issued in 2024 and 2025 focusing on general infrastructure protection, the new text specifically tailors its instructions to the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. The directive aims to ensure that public institutions and essential services can maintain functionality regardless of the immediate military status, ranging from active combat to a negotiated pause in fighting.

Operational Measures for Conflict Phases

Under the full-scale war scenario, the directive mandates the suspension of large public gatherings and in-person events to reduce vulnerability. Resources are to be redirected toward operational readiness, the maintenance of critical services, and the coordination of assistance for the general population. In the event of a ceasefire, where hostilities pause without a permanent end, the focus shifts to maintaining vigilance against hybrid warfare tactics and securing information infrastructure. This layered approach allows authorities to adapt their posture dynamically based on the evolving tactical situation on the ground.

If hostilities end permanently, the directive calls for the full implementation of planned exercises and public training programmes. This phased strategy suggests an intent to normalize daily life quickly if a durable peace is achieved, while preserving a hardened defensive posture if the conflict remains unresolved. The instructions also require the updating of operational plans based on lessons learned from what Iranian officials have termed its recent imposed wars, indicating a direct application of recent combat experience to future preparedness.

Context of Escalating Regional Tensions

The issuance of this directive coincides with a period of intense military activity in the region. According to reports from GN auto geopolitics/middle-east: Iran nuclear, the United States and Israel launched large-scale attacks on Iran on February 28, targeting government buildings, military facilities, and air defence systems. In response, Iran conducted missile and drone strikes against Israeli targets and US bases across the region. This exchange has marked a significant escalation in tensions that had previously been contained by diplomatic efforts.

The current conflict builds upon a history of direct confrontations, including a twelve-day war in June 2025 that ended with a US-brokered ceasefire. The recent resumption of hostilities has led to a broader regional spread of the conflict, with diplomatic channels continuing to seek a resolution. The new passive defence directive underscores the Iranian government’s assessment that the threat of renewed full-scale conflict remains a tangible possibility, necessitating a sustained state of readiness among the civilian and military populations.

Strategic Implications for Future Stability

The explicit categorization of post-war scenarios in the directive highlights a strategic focus on continuity and resilience. By preparing for the possibility of a ceasefire rather than just total victory or defeat, the Iranian leadership is signaling an awareness of the complex diplomatic realities involved in ending the conflict. This approach aims to minimize societal disruption while maintaining the capacity for rapid re-escalation if negotiations fail. The emphasis on information security and hybrid warfare preparedness also reflects a recognition that modern conflicts extend beyond kinetic military operations into the digital and informational domains.

Looking ahead, the implementation of these measures will be a key indicator of the country's readiness and internal cohesion. Observers will likely monitor whether the suspension of public events occurs, which would be a clear sign of the full-war scenario being activated. Conversely, the resumption of normal public activities could indicate a successful transition to a ceasefire or post-war phase. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts and military posturing continuing to shape the trajectory of the conflict in the coming weeks.