Iran Forces Continue to Crackdown on Potential Protestors

Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref visited several checkpoints to boost the morale of Basij and IRGC forces.

(photo credit: SOCIAL MEDIA)

Iranian security forces are launching a new crackdown on any signs of domestic uprising, setting up new security checkpoints, arresting people on suspicion of collaboration with foreign entities, and warning protesters via sms messages that there is a shoot-to-kill order in place, The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday. 

While the IRGC and plainclothes Basij have been weakened by US and Israeli attacks, Iranians say that they are still exercising strict control over the cities, especially at night, when armed men on motorcycles ride through the streets. These men have also set up a network of security checkpoints where they regularly stop and search cars, the WSJ wrote. 

According to Ahmad-Reza Radan, the commander of Iran’s police force, over 500 people have been arrested since the beginning of the war. Charges against those detained include sharing information with enemy forces or international media, or just taking photos or videos of sites hit.

While the security forces have been weakened by US and Israeli attacks, Iranians say that they are still exercising strict control over the cities, especially at night.