Tehran, Iran – In a scene reflecting unprecedented security panic, Iranian streets have been transformed into something resembling open military barracks. A marked increase in the public deployment of pro-Tehran militias has been observed, particularly the proxy forces brought in from abroad.
According to observers and eyewitness accounts, these moves are part of the regime’s “iron fist” strategy to prevent a widespread popular uprising. This comes amidst crippling economic crises and the repercussions of recent military confrontations.
Importing “repression”: The entry of Iraqi militias and the “Fatimiyoun”
Hossein Daei-Eslam, a member of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, revealed to (Voice of Emirates) intelligence indicating that the Iranian regime has recently begun deploying large numbers of its militia members from Iraq into Iranian cities. According to Daei-Eslam, the aim of this move is to utilize elements who do not hesitate to use excessive violence against civilians to control the internal situation. This deployment is not limited to Iraqi militias; last week, armed patrols belonging to the Afghan Fatemiyoun militia were seen roaming the streets of Tehran in SUVs. These actions were clearly intended to intimidate the population. This heavy deployment is particularly concentrated in sensitive border regions such as Kurdistan, Sistan and Baluchestan, and Khuzestan (Ahvaz). These areas are hotbeds of protests demanding national and civil rights.
The militarization of public space and the “filled streets” tactic
Da’i al-Islam argues that the regime fears the “explosive moment” of popular discontent more than any external threat. To this end, it has imposed a de facto state of military rule. It has also deployed armed men in civilian clothes in main squares, mosques, and sensitive locations to counter any sudden protest movement. In a tactic reflecting deep panic over the “emptiness of the streets,” the Revolutionary Guard has mobilized the families of its members and their children to organize nightly religious events and distribute food. This ensures the presence of loyal crowds in the squares, preventing protesters from seizing control. Warnings from Guard commanders and officials, such as former Communications Minister Azari Jahromi, have been repeated. He addressed the security forces, saying, “Do not leave the streets empty,” implying that the absence of security and loyal crowds would immediately lead to the regime’s collapse at the hands of “resistance units.”
Executions as a deterrent
The regime’s efforts haven’t stopped at military deployment; they’ve extended to a “hysteria of executions.” In recent weeks, the regime has executed seven members of the “Resistance Units” affiliated with the People’s Mujahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK), in addition to seven young men who participated in the January uprising and attacked military installations. Analysts believe these executions are primarily aimed at breaking the spirit of Iranian youth and deterring public demonstrations. However, the continued protests indicate the failure of this bloody policy.
Warnings from within: “The post-war period is more difficult.”
Within the regime itself, voices began warning of catastrophic consequences. On April 19, Emadoddin Baghi, a prominent political figure, stated that the end of the foreign war would unleash severe internal tensions that had never been resolved and had, in fact, been exacerbated by hyperinflation. Rouzbeh Alamdari, an analyst close to the regime, also expressed the regime’s fear of a repeat of Operation Eternal Light (1988). He warned of a “decisive attack” that could be launched from within, this time by the people themselves. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s famous statement is now coming true: “If we don’t fight in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Lebanon, we will be forced to fight inside Iran’s cities.” The reality today confirms that the regime has lost its regional tools. Now it stands face to face with its true enemy: the Iranian people.
Economic catastrophe: Hunger is knocking on the doors
This security crackdown coincides with an economic collapse described by government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani as a “historic catastrophe.” Initial estimates put the damage at around $270 billion. The figures reveal a dire living situation: basic food supplies now consume 85% of a married worker’s income. According to data from the newspaper Donya-e-Eqtesad, food prices have risen by 68% in just four months. Basic commodities have also seen astronomical price increases. These figures effectively mean that Iranian families are now unable to meet their basic protein needs. Thus, Prime Minister Masoud Pezeshkian likened the regime’s situation to that of a “patient on the verge of collapse,” warning that any further pressure would lead to a major explosion.
