Mojtaba Khamenei oversees deepening post-ceasefire crackdown
Key Questions
Who is directing the post-ceasefire repression in Iran?
Mojtaba Khamenei is overseeing the surge in repression, including atrocities at Alghadir hospital and a rise in executions. His role involves consolidating IRGC power amid a fragile ceasefire.
What are the Alghadir atrocities?
The Alghadir hospital crackdown on January 8 resulted in multiple civilian deaths, with families now helping identify victims such as Amirhossein Khodadadi. Reports link these events to the broader post-ceasefire repression.
Why have executions in Iran reached a 40-year high?
The staggering number of executions, driven largely by Iran's toll, has pushed global figures to their highest level since 1981 according to Amnesty International. This forms part of the intensified crackdown directed by Mojtaba Khamenei.
How many arrests have occurred during the recent crackdown?
Over 4,000 arrests have been reported as part of the repression surge. The crackdown has also involved tens of thousands detained in earlier January protests.
Why is Iran training civilians for war on the streets?
Civilian war training is being conducted in Tehran amid growing threats of US attack and IRGC consolidation. This mobilization occurs alongside weapons demonstrations as the ceasefire remains fragile.
Which artists are being targeted in the crackdown?
Filmmakers such as Jafar Panahi face renewed "propaganda" trials, while Asghar Farhadi has publicly condemned the violence and deaths. Artists are among those facing increased pressure during the repression.
What is the scale of renewed protests and deaths?
Renewed protests have resulted in over 500 deaths, with earlier January events reportedly killing over 7,000 according to activists. Iranian Americans have held large demonstrations in Washington DC against the executions.
How does the current situation relate to the ceasefire?
The repression surge, civilian training, and street mobilization are taking place under a fragile ceasefire. IRGC consolidation continues as Mojtaba Khamenei directs these measures.
Mojtaba directs repression surge including Alghadir atrocities, executions to 40-year high, 4000+ arrests. Civilian war training and street mobilization added amid IRGC consolidation, fragile ceasefire. Artists targeted; renewed protests with >500 deaths.