Leaked audio reveals Iranian Basij, IRGC on alert over protest fears

A covert recording captured a secret meeting of Iran's Basij and Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Pakdasht, expressing deep concerns over potential unrest and waning public support. The conversation followed key events, such as the killing of a regime supporter and the growing influence of social media. The meeting's chair acknowledged that recent assassinations were a wake-up call, indicating that revolutionary elements were being targeted both in real life and online.

Officials fretted over security breaches and the potential for opposition groups to misuse AI tools for identifying and retaliating against regime supporters. The conversation also highlighted distrust of mobile phones and apps like ChatGPT. Concerns were raised about the failure of internet censorship policies driving protests, economic struggles, and political shifts.

IRGC cyber security officials warned of impending widespread and violent protests, particularly in response to fuel price hikes, predicting that even those without cars might join in the unrest to target state symbols and Basij members.