Every year from July 24 to 26, the Iranian regime commemorates the anniversary of its last major military clash with the National Liberation Army of Iran (NLA), marking its persistent grip on power.

The regime’s narratives celebrate its survival and emphasize the ongoing threats posed by opposition forces, particularly the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK). The event is remembered differently by the opposing sides: the Iranian Resistance calls it “Eternal Light,” while the clerical regime refers to it as “Operation Mersad.” This distinction underscores the deep divisions within Iranian society regarding the event’s legacy.

On July 26, Mohammad-Mehdi Hosseini Hamedani, the Friday prayer leader of Karaj, used the anniversary to issue a stern warning. He labeled the MEK as “hypocrites,” a term frequently used by the regime to discredit the group. He blamed the MEK for misjudging Iran’s political and military landscape, leading to their ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful operation aimed at capturing Tehran within 33 hours.

Hamedani further expressed concern about the MEK’s ongoing activities, accusing them of inciting dissent and collaborating with foreign adversaries. He stressed the need for vigilance against infiltration by MEK sympathizers within state institutions.

Ghorbanali Dorri-Najafabadi, former Minister of Intelligence and current Friday prayer leader of Arak recounted the MEK’s rapid advance during the operation, highlighting their near capture of Kermanshah. He emphasized the threat they posed, not just as external aggressors but as internal subversives.

State television echoed these sentiments, portraying Operation Mersad as a critical defensive victory for the Islamic Republic. IRGC Commander Shahrokhi detailed the MEK’s tactical plan, which included capturing multiple cities en route to Tehran. He noted that their ultimate goal was to declare an independent government in Kermanshah if they failed to reach the capital.

In a state television interview on July 24, Mohammad-Javad Hasheminejad, presented as the Secretary-General of the Habilian Organization, warned about the MEK’s continued influence. He accused the group of spreading misinformation about Iran’s nuclear activities and being a disruptive force in recent uprisings. Hasheminejad also criticized international support for the MEK, specifically mentioning high-profile endorsements from U.S. politicians.

He expressed alarm over the MEK’s portrayal as champions of freedom and urged the Iranian youth to be wary of their historical narrative. This consistent emphasis on the “hypocrites” reveals the regime’s deep-seated anxiety about the MEK’s influence both domestically and abroad.

Despite the regime’s efforts to vilify the MEK and control the narrative, the repeated need to caution against the group suggests a persistent undercurrent of support or at least curiosity among the Iranian populace. This annual commemoration reflects on a significant historical event and highlights ongoing ideological and political battles within Iran.

MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI  (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu