On September 5, as the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) marked its 60th founding anniversary, its network of Resistance Units inside Iran sent a powerful message of defiance from the streets of Zahedan. In a direct challenge to the ruling theocracy, they held placards and displayed slogans honoring six decades of relentless struggle for a free and democratic Iran, proving that the spirit of resistance is thriving despite an escalating campaign of terror by the regime.
These courageous acts come amidst an intense wave of repression aimed at crushing dissent, particularly against PMOI supporters. Less than two months ago, the regime executed PMOI members Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani. Currently, 14 other PMOI supporters are on death row, facing imminent execution. The regime has also intensified its crackdown on the families of PMOI members, carrying out mass arrests while simultaneously attempting to erase its history of crimes by destroying the gravesites of martyrs.
The PMOI means 60 years of resistance and steadfastness. pic.twitter.com/m8Dw0OjRqt
— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) September 6, 2025
A clear rejection of all dictatorships
The messages displayed by the Resistance Units underscore a core principle that has defined the PMOI for 60 years: the unequivocal rejection of all forms of dictatorship. Slogans such as, “Down with the oppressor, be it the shah or the mullahs,” and, “A dictatorship is a dictatorship, whether it wears a turban or a crown,” make it clear that the goal is not to replace one tyrant with another, but to establish a truly democratic republic based on popular sovereignty.
This vision stands in stark contrast to both the current religious fascism and the deposed monarchy, which is trying to take advantage of the weakened state of the current regime to make a comeback and re-establish a despotic state.
The PMOI are the guarantee for overthrowing the inhumane regime#MEK60 #WeSupportMEK pic.twitter.com/eAAXH2jKpQ
— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) September 6, 2025
A legacy forged through 60 years of sacrifice and steadfastness
The anniversary activities paid tribute to the immense sacrifices that have cemented the PMOI’s role as a “national treasure in contemporary Iranian history.” One placard powerfully noted how, “For 60 years, the PMOI/MEK has been tested in torture chambers, execution squads, and gallows under both the Shah and the mullahs.” This refers to the more than 120,000 members and supporters who have been killed by both regimes. This history of endurance is built on what supporters describe as the PMOI’s foundational principles of “Honesty and Sacrifice,” which have sustained the movement through decades of trials.
Far from being crushed by six decades of persecution, the PMOI is demonstrating “constant growth, progress, and momentum,” as one placard read. The activities of the Resistance Units are the living embodiment of this resilience. Their slogans declare that the PMOI is the “guarantee for overthrowing the inhumane regime” and achieving freedom, affirming their choice for the future of Iran with the slogan, “Our Choice is Maryam Rajavi.” In the face of executions and arrests, the message from the streets is clear: the movement for a free Iran is not only alive but is actively steering the nation toward regime change and democracy.