The term 'Mustazafin', meaning 'oppressed', refers to young individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds in Iran who became crucial to the support of the Iranian regime following the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The phrase was popularized by Ayatollah Khomeini, aiming to mobilize the underprivileged classes in the name of a religious revolution that ultimately led to the fall of the monarchy. These young people became instrumental in establishing the Revolutionary Guard, created specifically to protect the new Islamic regime against internal and external threats.

Over the years, the structure of the Revolutionary Guard has grown significantly, leading to the formation of the Basij militia, which reportedly has nearly two million members today. This militia has a dual role: not only does it defend the Islamic Republic, but it also serves as a means of social control over the population, actively engaging in suppressing dissent and maintaining the regime’s authority. The dynamics of power in Iran have thus largely been shaped by this intersection of poverty, ideology, and political loyalty.

The narrative surrounding the 'Mustazafin' raises important questions about social inequality, political engagement, and the manipulation of class struggle in Iran. As these younger generations continue to play a pivotal role in the regime's survival, understanding their motivations and socio-political conditions may provide insight into the future of Iran's political landscape, especially in light of ongoing protests and demands for reform within the country.