Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has highlighted the role of Irans Basij volunteer force in both defending the country and facilitating its growth, praising it as a great asset and the God-given reserve for the Iranian nation.
Ayatollah Khamenei made the remarks in a message issued on Wednesday on the occasion of the 41st anniversary of the Basij forces creation under the direction of the late founder of the Islamic Republic, Imam Khomeini.
The message was read out by Brigadier General Mohammad Shirazi, the head of the Leaders Military Office, in a video conference call with Basij headquarters in provincial capitals.
Basij is a great and brilliant relic of the late Imam as well as a manifestation of national authority and an exhibition of purity, sincerity, insight and struggle, it read.
The name of Basij is mentioned everywhere and its presence is evident when it comes to defending the country, its independence and stability, to [offering] vital services on a nationwide scale, to [promoting] pioneering scientific activities and new technologies, to [adopting] value-based approaches, and to creating a spiritual atmosphere," it added.
The Leader described faith, determination, responsibility, and self-confidence as the building blocks of Basijs capabilities and problem resolution efforts, saying these are themselves the Gods blessings and gifts that need to be preserved.
Basij is the great asset and God-given reserve of the Iranian nation, said Ayatollah Khamenei, warning that the enemies have been thinking of destroying or rendering it ineffective.
Ayatollah Khamenei called on the organizations officials and members to see themselves duty-bound to nullify the enemys deception and proceed with trust, sincerity and planning.