Iranian security forces have adopted several methods to avoid Israeli and American strikes, with a common denominator: operating in close proximity to civilians, according to two Iranian citizens who spoke with The Jerusalem Post.
In recent weeks, Israel and the United States have carried out drone strikes targeting Iranian security force checkpoints, Basij members, their headquarters, and gathering points.
According to the testimonies, security forces have begun assembling in locations such as schools and universities in an apparent effort to deter attacks. In addition, members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other security forces are reportedly meeting inside hospitals. “Sections of civilian hospitals are being cleared for them, where they gather and stay,” one of the citizens said.
Security forces have also established numerous checkpoints across various cities. According to the testimonies, one purpose is to deliberately create traffic congestion and use civilians as human shields. “They intentionally create traffic jams near areas where their forces are present or along routes they use, so they can use people as human shields,” one of the Iranians told the Post.
'Basij youth'
The accounts further indicate that security personnel have begun moving in civilian clothing while carrying weapons. “They are also recruiting young people, calling them ‘Basij youth’ - giving them weapons and uniforms that do not attract attention,” said one citizen who witnessed this on the street.
In recent weeks, some of these gatherings have also taken place in stadiums and sports centers, several of which were reportedly targeted. At Azadi Stadium, one of the largest in Tehran, hundreds were reportedly killed in one of the strikes.
The new testimonies suggest that members of the security forces are highly concerned about the military capabilities of Israel and the United States. However, for now, most have not abandoned their roles in organizations that suppress protesters.