Iran had to take drastic steps in order to stage a big show of force parade recently. That’s because the Ayatollah has a “morale crisis” on his hands. Since “many of our comrades” declined “invitations” to participate in the drill, they rounded up refugees from Afghanistan and dressed them to look the part.
Iran shows force
The way Iran chose to show the world they’re ready to battle Donald Trump and the Israelis backfired on them horribly.
“The Iranian regime’s morale crisis was highlighted during the recent ‘110,000-strong Wayfarers of Jerusalem‘ drill in Tehran.” They had to practically kidnap people to show on TV.
Hassan Hassanzadeh, commander of the IRGC’s Mohammad Rasulollah division in Tehran, relates his disappointment. “Many of our comrades, who once proudly served in the Basij and IRGC, have declined invitations to participate in the drill.”
Iran had noticed “a trend that has grown since the fallout from Syria,” he declared. The statement was instantly censored. “His remarks, initially published by Sharq Daily, were later removed.” Along with his head, some say.
The drill had only one purpose. A show of strength to tell the world they’re ready for “any potential threat against the capital” and to combat “terrorist operations.”
Iran considers Israeli and U.S. forces who want to take out their nuclear bomb capability, “terrorists.”

Comprehensive readiness
According to official IRGC spokesperson Ali-Mohammad Naeini, the exercise was aimed at showcasing “the comprehensive readiness of the Basij to counter any threat, demonstrate cohesion, and improve professional rescue, defense, and anti-terrorism skills.”
The only problem is that the Basij didn’t show. “However, participation fell short of expectations, prompting increased reliance on Afghan residents in Iran.”
Hassanzadeh confirmed that “at least 27,000 Afghan brothers and sisters residing in Iran have registered for the drill.” The statement appeared on a state-run news site which currently notes “Your desired page was not found.”

Mashreq News, a platform run by the IRGC Intelligence Organization, was quick to deny the statement which doesn’t exist.
“The publication of a fabricated, strange, and suspicious report attributed to Commander Hassan Hassanzadeh, head of the IRGC’s Mohammad Rasulullah division in Tehran, by Sharq Daily, following the frustration of foreign adversaries’ media over the public and media reception of the 110,000-strong drill in the capital, represents an unprecedented and rare move targeting the country’s military forces and defensive authority.”
Iran was clearly unhappy. The Ayatollah made an announcement himself. “Everyone with a platform in media or propaganda must prioritize keeping hope alive in the hearts of the people. No discouraging words should be spoken.“