Basij in the news for expanded role in Iran’s security and crackdown amid protests and regional tensions. A volunteer paramilitary under IRGC, part of Iran’s mobilization org.
Since March 12, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on Israel and regional targets, prompting extensive Israeli and US military strikes on Iran. The conflict has expanded with regional missile exchanges, targeting Iran's military infrastructure and leadership, amid ongoing regional tensions.
As of March 20, 2026, Israel and the US continue a nearly three-week airstrike campaign targeting Iran's paramilitary Basij and Revolutionary Guard forces, including the killing of Basij head Gholamreza Soleimani. Despite strikes on checkpoints and leadership, Iran's security forces maintain control amid intensified crackdowns and arrests, with no widespread uprising yet.
Since initiating strikes in Iran, President Trump has sent mixed messages about the war's progress, with reports of increased military activity and conflicting claims about its status. He has also made controversial remarks about Iran's protesters and race, while tensions over the Strait of Hormuz remain high. The conflict's future remains uncertain.
Israel and the US have conducted extensive strikes against Iran, killing top officials and degrading military capabilities. Despite tactical successes, Iran remains in control, and regime collapse is unlikely soon. The conflict continues with ongoing regional tensions and military operations.
Since February 28, the US and Israel have targeted Iranian military sites, with Iran responding with drone and missile attacks. Satellite images reveal damage at key military and strategic sites across the Middle East, including Iran's naval port, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Oman, amid ongoing conflict.
As of April 2026, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is recruiting children as young as 12 for military and security duties, including manning checkpoints and patrols. Evidence shows children armed with rifles deployed in Tehran and other cities, violating international law. An 11-year-old boy was killed in a drone strike while on duty. Rights groups condemn the practice as a war crime.