Iranian strategists have embraced the concept of duality for centuries: rather than streamline government institutions, much Persian literature suggests that wise leaders should duplicate them so that a ruler can play institutions off each other and have them inform on the other and compete. Perhaps the best example within the Islamic Republic of Iran has been the military: the country has cultivated not only a regular military, but also the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Traditionally, the regular military was charged with territorial defense, while the IRGC was responsible for defense of the revolution against threats both external and internal. In practice, the IRGC was the more elite force privy to greater resources and higher technology, while the regular military was largely where conscripts did their time before heading to the university or to work.
The regime’s approach to the army may be changing, however, if the excerpted speech by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is any indication. He emphasizes the importance of Islam and Islamic ideology to the army. His citation of chapter 8 of the Quran—named Anfal, or the spoils of war, is also significant, as it described an early battle in which Muhammad’s forces triumphed against pagans and Jews. In more contemporary religious discussion it is often used to justify religiously tinged warfare. In effect, Khamenei is announcing that not only the IRGC, but also the regular army should be considered forces for the defense, if not propagation of religion.
Also important is Khamenei’s acknowledgement of the progress and diversity of Iran’s indigenous military industry. While United Nations Security Council resolutions have prohibited Iranian export of weaponry, they place few limits on Iranian military imports. Nevertheless, Khamenei’s embrace and endorsement of Iran’s indigenous weapons program suggests Iran will continue to rely on its own weapons programs out of fear that dependence on outside suppliers represents too great a vulnerability.
from AEI » Latest Content http://ift.tt/1JeVm9K
0 التعليقات:
Post a Comment