The Iranian embassy in London has issued a call to its citizens in the UK, urging them to “sacrifice their lives for the Homeland” in a controversial recruitment effort broadcast to a large audience.
Iranian diplomats have encouraged Iranians living in the UK to be willing to give up their lives for Iran in a new initiative aimed at defending Iranian territory. The call-to-arms was disseminated through the Iranian consulate’s website and an official Iranian government-run Telegram channel, instructing interested individuals to register to participate in the martyrdom campaign, including the recruitment of children.
The recruitment drive, labeled as ‘appalling’ by UK shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel, prompted her to call on UK prime minister Keir Starmer, the police, and the Home Office to take action. The message, shared on the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in London’s official Telegram channel, urged Iranian expatriates in the UK to register their commitment to “defend Iranian land” through the consulate’s Mikhak system.
The recruitment message, viewed by many, emphasized the importance of displaying empathy, loyalty, and national zeal by participating in the “Patriotism Campaign” and contributing to the honor of Iran. It included a verse from the Shahnameh, a renowned Persian poetry collection, urging Iranians to sacrifice their lives for the country rather than surrender to the enemy.
The United4Mahsa campaign group in London expressed concerns over the embassy’s call for martyrdom, suggesting that the regime is resorting to recruiting individuals against its enemies, including the Iranian diaspora. UK shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel condemned the Iranian embassy’s recruitment efforts in the UK and called for swift intervention by UK authorities to ensure public safety.
A UK government spokesperson reassured the public of their commitment to investigating threats and safeguarding British interests against malign state activities, particularly those posed by Iran. The “Sacrificed Life Campaign” by Iran, promoted through Telegram and the Persian version of the UK embassy website, solicits expressions of interest from individuals willing to sacrifice themselves for the homeland.
The Iranian Embassy defended the initiative, stating that it aims to support Iranians worldwide in protecting their country’s territorial integrity without promoting hostility. The Mirror has reached out to the Home Office and the UK Counter Terrorism Policing unit for their comments on the matter.
