General Discussion

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basij

Today, the force consists of young Iranians, a significant portion drawn from the traditionally Shia cleric religious and politically loyalist parts of Iran's society,[9] who volunteer, often in exchange for official benefits. With branches in "virtually every" city and town in Iran,[1][13] the Basij serve as an auxiliary force engaged in enforcing state control over society,[14] acting as a morality police at checkpoints and parks, and suppressing dissident gathering,[9] as well as serving as law enforcement auxiliary, providing social services, organizing public religious ceremonies.[15][16] The force was often present and reacting to the widespread 2009 Iranian election protests, 2017–18 Iranian protests, and the 2022-2023 Mahsa Amini protests.[17] The Basij are subordinate to and receive their orders from the IRGC and the Supreme Leader of Iran.[10][18] They are said to be "tightly affiliated" with the Islamic Republic's "hardline" political faction,[9] and "routinely" praised by the Supreme Leader,[19] but also called a "profound source of disquiet and rancor" among the general public in Iran.[20] Following Operation Midnight Hammer, Basij forces has significantly increased its urban patrols, especially at night to “ensure security".[21]

As part of the IRGC's sphere, the Basij are indirectly designated as a terrorist organization by the governments of the United States, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.[22] The Basij has been frequently implicated in human rights violations, including torture, rape and sexual violence,[23] enforcing sharia law on citizens such as the mandatory wearing of the hijab.[24][25][26]

In theory, the Basij are banned from involvement in politics by the Iranian constitution, but its leadership is considered active, particularly during and after the 2005 election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.[8] In past elections militia members have voted for both hardliners and reformists. President Ahmadinejad received significant support from militia members, many of whom have benefited from his policies during his presidency.[65] Supreme Leader Khamenei described Basij as "the greatest hope of the Iranian nation" and "an immaculate tree".[18]