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Posted On : Dec 11 2020

Jaysh al-Adl: The Shadowy Militant Group in Southeastern Iran

Jaysh al-Adl, formerly known as Jundallah, is a shadowy militant group that has operated in the southeastern region of Iran for over a decade.


Origins and Leadership

Jaysh al-Adl traces its origins back to the early 2000s when it was originally known as Jundallah, which means "Soldiers of God." The group was founded by Abdul Malik Rigi, a Baloch separatist leader, with the aim of fighting for the rights of Iran's Baloch minority. After Rigi's capture and execution in 2010, the group underwent a transformation and rebranded itself as Jaysh al-Adl, which means "Army of Justice."

Objectives and Ideology

The primary objective of Jaysh al-Adl is to advocate for the rights and autonomy of Iran's Baloch population, who often feel marginalized by the central government. The group has also been involved in attacks against Iranian security forces and infrastructure, including bombings and kidnappings. While they claim to fight for justice and minority rights, their tactics have often been labelled as terrorism by the Iranian government.

Activities and Tactics

Jaysh al-Adl has been responsible for a series of deadly attacks in southeastern Iran, particularly in the Sistan and Baluchistan province. These attacks have included bombings targeting military personnel and government installations, as well as the abduction of Iranian border guards. The group's ability to carry out these actions is often attributed to their knowledge of the rugged terrain and their local support networks.

International Connections

While Jaysh al-Adl primarily operates within Iran, it has been accused of receiving support and sanctuary from militant groups based in Pakistan, such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. These connections have raised concerns about cross-border terrorism and the potential for regional instability.

Iranian Government Response

The Iranian government views Jaysh al-Adl as a threat to its national security and has taken a strong stance against the group. The authorities have conducted military operations to target its members and have implemented security measures to prevent further attacks in the region.

Conclusion

Jaysh al-Adl, formerly known as Jundallah, remains a significant player in the complex security landscape of southeastern Iran. While the group claims to advocate for the rights of Iran's Baloch minority, its activities have often involved acts of violence and terrorism. The Iranian government's efforts to counter the group reflect the challenges posed by such militant organizations within the country. The ongoing struggle for autonomy and rights in this region underscores the importance of addressing the grievances of marginalized communities and fostering dialogue to achieve a more stable and secure future.




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