call to arms

[P_a_v]

Hello, I just want to make sure that I understand this sentence correctly:
"The article read like a call to arms for small political parties ... "
.... Does it mean that small political parties were called to arms ?
Thank you!

[Cerberus™]

It is a metaphor. Normally, a call to arms is a request or demand that your ally join a war on your side; here politics is compared to war, and a call to arms to - well, I'm not sure exactly, since I don't know the context; it will be some political activity in support of someone.
Edit: now I see your problem. I believe "for" can point to either those who are to be protected, or to those who are to help; I'm afraid I can't help you here.

[P_a_v]

yeah, i was asking about the "for" here .. sorry for not making it more straightforward.
I think your comment helped. Thank you!