The campaign against the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK) represents one of the most brutal chapters in the history of Iran’s internal repression.

Starting in the 1980s, the Iranian regime under the leadership of Ruhollah Khomeini undertook a systematic demonization and elimination of this political opposition group, marking a period of widespread human rights violations that culminated in the 1988 massacre.

Khomeini, determined to secure the theocratic regime’s dominance, first labeled the PMOI as “Monafeqin” (hypocrites), positioning them as enemies of true Islam. The PMOI, with its pro-democracy and Islamic ideologies, was seen by Khomeini as a more profound threat than foreign powers. This calculated smear campaign aimed to dehumanize the PMOI, preparing the Iranian population and regime loyalists for the harsh crackdowns that followed.

By the early 1980s, the demonization gave way to violent repression. Thousands of PMOI members were arrested, tortured, and executed in purges justified by the regime as necessary measures to root out dissent. These crackdowns intensified by the mid-1980s, as the PMOI emerged as the regime’s most organized and determined opposition, both within Iran and in exile.

The most harrowing event in this chapter occurred in 1988. Following a fatwa from Khomeini, the infamous “Death Commissions” were formed. Political prisoners, primarily PMOI members, faced perfunctory trials where their loyalty to the PMOI determined their fate. Those who remained loyal were immediately sentenced to death. In a few months, over 30,000 political prisoners were executed, making the 1988 massacre one of the darkest moments in Iran’s history of political repression.

The regime’s connection to these atrocities resurfaced when Ebrahim Raisi, a key figure in the “Death Commissions,” was elevated to power by Khomeini’s successor, Ali Khamenei. Raisi’s involvement in the 1988 massacre earned him the notorious title “the Butcher of Tehran.” His rise to the presidency in 2021 sparked outrage from international human rights organizations, leading to global condemnation.

The release of a detailed report by UN Special Rapporteur Javaid Rehman exposed the genocidal intent behind the regime’s actions, calling for the international community to hold Iran’s leaders accountable. Despite Tehran’s efforts to undermine the report’s findings, the fight for justice continues. The international community is urged to support individuals like Rehman, who risk their safety to expose the crimes of oppressive regimes, ensuring accountability and justice prevail.

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