The organized Iranian resistance is distinguished by a prominent feature: "women" are at the forefront of its hierarchy. Thus far, such a remarkable attribute cannot be found at any point in history for a social organization! Therefore, it is important to reflect on this matter and draw lessons from it. 

The Iranian resistance annually celebrates "International Women's Day," where hundreds of female figures from different countries participate. All participants praise the "status of women" within the ranks of the resistance, many of whom come from diverse cultures and beliefs. They emphasize that no organization like this has ever existed anywhere in history or the modern world. For this reason, the perspective on "women" and their status in the Iranian Resistance is an unparalleled treasure that must be appreciated. Perhaps this strength and wealth remain unrecognized or misunderstood by some! 

If we trace the extent of women's participation in the world and their support for the Iranian resistance, we might say it has extended to the farthest corners of the earth. So what is the reason? Why is this the case?

A Power Beyond Borders!
The increasing widespread participation in support of women in the Iranian resistance is, above all, a sign of such resistance's strength that transcends the geopolitical boundaries of a country or several countries. This is not only asserted by the Iranian resistance but also by women worldwide.

The element of "woman" finds its meaning and significance in political equations within the Iranian resistance. This is because this resistance is facing one of the most heinous dictatorships in history—a "woman-hating" dictatorship that seeks to halt the march of history towards the future. The current regime, the institutional mindset of this state and its officials, and thus the status of women in Iran today all stand testament to this truth.

Women: The Driving Force for Change
The Iranian resistance has repeatedly announced its belief that "women are the driving force for change in society." Today, the leadership of the resistance, both outside Iran and especially within Iranian territories, lies on the shoulders of "women" who are actively functioning in "resistance units." The Iranian resistance's aforementioned belief does not imply the exclusion of men or minimizing their influence in confronting dictatorship. The reality is that "free women" and "free men" complement each other; in other words, they are two sides of the same coin. Liberation from the confines of slavery to advance the downfall of dictatorship in Iran is an essential necessity. Without liberation from these constraints, it will never be possible to uproot a dictatorial regime in Iran!

As stated by Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the elected president of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, tyrants elevate themselves to the status of "gods," claiming that their illegal authority is a "divine gift." A gift denied to "women" and exclusive to male offspring generation after generation. Mrs. Rajavi pointed out the constitution of the Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist dictatorship, which considers itself the "holder of absolute power" and "God's representative on earth."

Women’s Movement in the Iranian Resistance  
In the face of dictatorship, the Iranian resistance has benefited from the organization that women have built, which has been foundational to the resistance for decades. Free women and men are fully aware of what they seek: freedom, democracy, independence, and a democratic republic, tangible in the program announced by Mrs. Maryam Rajavi years ago. 

In driving the struggle against dictatorship forward, women are "pioneers" and play a "decisive" role. This reality is the result of centuries of struggle by Iranian women against dictatorial regimes. They have fought alongside men against tyranny. Their main demand does not differ from that of their compatriots: "freedom and independence." However, dictatorial regimes, in all their forms, are anti-women, with the essence of that being "coercion" and women's subordination to men.

No to Coercion!
Mrs. Maryam Rajavi has repeatedly declared her position against dictatorships, saying: "No to compulsory hijab, no to compulsory religion, no to compulsory rule." Although Iranian women have paid a heavy price to reach this status, achieving it would not have been possible without the presence of free men. In short, "International Women's Day" is indeed "International Men's Day" as well. Free men rediscover themselves on "International Women's Day"; they not only draw inspiration from it but also take pride in it. This trend has now reflected globally!

Mrs. Maryam Rajavi states: "The participation of women and their leadership role in the struggle against religious tyranny is a prerequisite for the overthrow of this fascist regime. This role and this responsibility are also necessary conditions for achieving true democracy and sustainable economic and social development in a free Iran."

By Abdul Rahman Korki (Mahabadi)