Message from Iran’s Supreme Leader on National Police Week

Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, recently issued a written statement to commemorate National Police Week, marking the role of police in maintaining what he calls “social order.” He has not made any public appearances since his rise to power.

Khamenei’s message portrayed service in the Iranian police, including the controversial morality police, as a form of “jihad on the path of God.” He suggested that police merit the same recognition as the Iranian Armed Forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Furthermore, he alluded to ongoing “malicious attacks” against Iran, which seems to reference the protests earlier this year where, by various estimates, many people lost their lives due to police actions.

In his statement, Khamenei emphasized the importance of security in Iran, attributing it to the dedication and bravery of police personnel. He claimed that this security is essential for societal welfare and public well-being, describing police work as both a noble service and as having substantial social support.

He also mentioned that the contributions of those protecting security often go unappreciated by the public, which he implies has become a source of grievance that enhances their status in the eyes of God.

The statement concluded with a note of gratitude towards the police for their efforts, suggesting that enhancing the capabilities of security forces is crucial for fulfilling their responsibilities effectively.

The National Police, formerly known as the Law Enforcement Forces of Iran, operate separately from the IRGC. They are particularly known for their involvement in enforcing strict social codes through the morality police, which has faced international condemnation for targeting women over issues like dress code violations. Over the last decade, the U.S. has sanctioned Iranian police forces for human rights abuses.

Recent sanctions were imposed following the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish woman who died after being arrested by the morality police for an alleged violation related to her hijab. Her death sparked widespread protests across the nation, which authorities met with arrests and violence. The protests were halted temporarily but resurfaced in December 2025, driven by economic turmoil and inflation.

During this latest round of protests, Iranian police have reportedly killed many unarmed young people. The government acknowledged that approximately 5,000 individuals had died during unrest, though some dissident groups argue the actual number exceeds 10,000, not counting those executed after their trials. Alireza Sepahi, a 25-year-old protestor, was recently hanged following his arrest during the protests.

Iranian police leadership has been openly aggressive towards dissent. In a March address, National Police Chief Ahmad-Reza Radan threatened to regard dissenters as enemies and warned of severe repercussions for those opposing the regime.

The current situation raises questions about Khamenei’s health and capability to lead. He hasn’t been seen in public since he was named supreme leader in March, leading to speculation about his condition, with some rumors suggesting he may have been injured or otherwise incapacitated.