Iran’s Basij, The Eyes And Ears Of The Islamic Republic, Explained

Last Updated:March 18, 2026, 19:47 IST

What is Basij’s role and function in Iran? Who heads it? Iran's security force explained

The Basij, which means ‘The Mobilisation’, is a massive paramilitary volunteer militia in Iran that serves as the “eyes and ears" of the Islamic Republic.

Established in 1979 by Ayatollah Khomeini, it is one of the five branches of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and focuses primarily on domestic security and ideological enforcement.

Who heads the Basij?

The long-time head of the Basij, General Gholamreza Soleimani, was confirmed killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran on March 17. This occurred during a broader conflict involving the U.S. and Israel that also resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in February 2026, said news reports.

Despite the loss of leadership, Basij units have recently expanded urban patrols and established checkpoints across Tehran to prevent domestic uprisings during the ongoing war.

Israeli forces have reportedly struck multiple Basij bases and checkpoints in Tehran and Kermanshah, specifically targeting units involved in suppressing the December 2025 – January 2026 protests.

How Many Security Forces Does Iran Have? The Role Of IRGC, Quds, Basij, Artesh Explained

What is Basij’s role and function in Iran?

The Basij is the regime’s primary tool for crushing domestic dissent. It played central roles in suppressing the 2009 Green Movement, the 2022 ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ protests, and most recently, the anti-government demonstrations of early 2026.

Its members act as a “morality police", enforcing strict religious dress codes and social norms in public spaces like parks and universities.

The organisation manages a multi-billion-dollar network of “covert" businesses spanning real estate, construction, and the stock market.

Basij’s membership and structure

While official Iranian figures claim up to 23.8 million members, independent analysts estimate the active force is between 450,000 and 1,000,000 personnel.

The Basij force is largely made up of young, ideologically loyal volunteers, often from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who join for benefits such as university admission or government job promotions.

The new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has deep personal ties to the Basij, having served as a fighter within the militia before his rise to power, reported Al Jazeera.

Iran-Israel War News Live Updates HERE

KEY FAQs

What is the Basij?

The Basij is a volunteer paramilitary force in Iran that operates under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It is made up of civilian volunteers who assist in security, military, and social activities.

When and why was the Basij created?

The Basij was created in 1979 after the Iranian Revolution. It was formed to mobilise ordinary citizens to defend the revolution and support national security.

What role does the Basij perform?

The Basij helps with internal security and law enforcement support, military support during conflicts such as the Iran-Iraq war, community programmes, youth activities, and ideological education.

With agency inputs

News explainers Iran’s Basij, The Eyes And Ears Of The Islamic Republic, Explained

Read More