In Iran, an election to choose a successor to the president who died in a helicopter crash will be held tomorrow. One of the leading candidates is a member of the elite “Revolutionary Guard Corps,” which supports the regime with a hardline stance. JNN’s camera entered a military-related facility of the “Revolutionary Guard Corps.”

On the 26th, one candidate withdrew from the race for the Iranian presidential election, leaving five candidates to compete. One of the leading candidates is Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf.

Former IRGC leader, Speaker of Parliament Ghalibaf
“I have dedicated my life to my beloved country, to the revolution and to the system.”

He is a former senior member of the Revolutionary Guard Corps, which supports the current anti-American, hardline regime. The Revolutionary Guard Corps has a stronger presence than the regular army and has a strong influence on domestic politics.

It is truly an important organization that forms the foundation of Iran today.

Reporter
“It is a military facility of the Revolutionary Guard. It is extremely unusual for a facility to be open to the press.”

JNN was given special permission to cover a facility related to the Revolutionary Guard’s Aerospace Forces on the outskirts of the capital, Tehran. Domestically produced weapons such as missiles and drones are proudly displayed.

Revolutionary Guard Brigadier General Barari
“We actually used those missiles in operations against Israel.”

Among them was the ballistic missile that was allegedly used in the first-ever attack on Israeli soil in April.

Iran launched a massive attack, firing more than 300 missiles and drones.

Revolutionary Guard Brigadier General Barari
“We conducted a very limited operation.”

He maintained a bullish stance, emphasizing that the attack was limited to about 20% of what was planned.

moreover…

Revolutionary Guard Brigadier General Barari
“There is also a drone (Q. Shahed, right?) Shahed 136. It is world famous.”

It has been pointed out that the drones are being provided to Russia, which continues to invade Ukraine…

Revolutionary Guard Brigadier General Barari
“(Q: Isn’t it being provided by Iran?) I’m not in a position to answer that question…”

I gave a vague reply.

Revolutionary Guard Brigadier General Barari
“(The IRGC) has defended Iran vigorously and will continue this fight until the last moment, even if it means shedding blood.”

If Ghalibaf, a former member of the Revolutionary Guard, is elected president, it is certain that he will continue the current regime’s hard-line stance.

However, many citizens are growing increasingly concerned.

What people are saying is that the country is facing a difficult economic situation due to severe sanctions imposed by Europe and the United States.

Fruit shop owner
“Inflation is rising fast. (Fruit) prices have gone up 50 percent since last year.”

Although discontent is growing as the consumer price index rose by more than 45 percent last year, the current regime remains adamant and has not shown a path to lifting sanctions.

Citizen
“I think it’s because of the government’s mishandling.”

In this election, reformist candidates who suggest a shift to a more reconciliatory approach with the West and a turnaround in the economy are gaining support. Will they support the continuation of the regime, or will they call for “change”? Attention is focused on the decision of the Iranian people.

Source: Japanese