Mojtaba's eyes and ears: Iran’s feared protest-crusher returns to power as regime tightens its grip

Hossein Taeb, a prominent Iranian security official, has been reinstated as commander of the Basij paramilitary organization, a role he previously held. This appointment follows a period of being largely out of public view after his dismissal in 2022 due to security breaches attributed to Israel. Taeb, known for his ruthless reputation and close ties with the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, is tasked with strengthening the Basij's role in monitoring society and suppressing dissent amid tightening economic sanctions and growing unrest. His mandate includes turning "every Iranian into a Basij member" and utilizing "new technologies for popular resistance." Analysts suggest this move aims to solidify Mojtaba Khamenei's authority and control over the populace, with one expert stating, "His most important task is to prevent and stop internal resistance, and to suppress it when it happens."