Iranian Regime Heightens Alert Against PMOI Among Youth

In recent developments, the Iranian regime, internationally recognized as the world's foremost state sponsor of terrorism, has amplified its media campaign against the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK).
In recent developments, the Iranian regime, internationally recognized as the world's foremost state sponsor of terrorism, has amplified its media campaign against the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK).

In recent developments, the Iranian regime, internationally recognized as the world's foremost state sponsor of terrorism, has amplified its media campaign against the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK).

 

A consistent theme across various media platforms, including news, television, and films, has been the regime’s focus on educating the younger generation about what it perceives as the considerable threat posed by the MEK.

A notable instance of this campaign is the interview granted by Mohammad-Sadegh Koushki to the state-run newspaper Hamshahri. Koushki, a former interrogator for the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence, now portrays himself as a university professor. His extensive history in interrogating MEK supporters positions him as a regime-endorsed “expert on the MEK issue.”

Koushki’s interview, though a clear part of the regime’s narrative, offers insight into its views on the MEK. His discourse requires a critical approach, deciphering what might be termed “reverse language.” Through this lens, Koushki’s remarks inadvertently highlight the MEK’s growing influence, especially among Iran’s youth.

 

 

He pointed out that the MEK expanded its internet presence significantly as online access became widespread. By the late 2000s and 2010s, they had adopted innovative methods for audience engagement. Koushki’s explanation of the MEK’s communication tactics with young people emphasized their use of victimhood narratives. He claims that the MEK portrays itself as a democratic, freedom-loving organization, victimized by the Islamic Republic, which has allegedly massacred tens of thousands of its members.

When questioned about financial incentives for young recruits, Koushki clarified that individuals are expected to fund their participation in MEK activities, negating the notion of monetary motivation. He suggested that those collaborating with Western and Israeli intelligence services receive compensation.

 

 

Further, Koushki acknowledged the MEK’s role in recent Iranian uprisings. He admitted to the recruitment of students from prestigious universities like Sharif University and their involvement in actions such as slogan-writing, violent protests, and creation of propaganda materials, particularly during the 2022 unrest.

Koushki also highlighted the MEK’s strategy of attracting teenagers and young adults through various political, social, and security-related content, including images and satirical clips that oppose the regime.

 

This interview represents a critical moment in understanding the Iranian regime's perspective on the MEK and its perceived impact on society, especially among the younger generation. 
This interview represents a critical moment in understanding the Iranian regime’s perspective on the MEK and its perceived impact on society, especially among the younger generation.

 

In addressing how to counter the MEK’s influence, Koushki advised against implementing internet restrictions. Instead, he proposed managing internet usage, suggesting that enacting laws with specific criteria could help mitigate the issue.

 

 


MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her siteTwitter & Facebook, NCRI  (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu