The 450,000 to millions of active personal members of the Basij are typically civilians, including students and workers from poor backgrounds (https://understandingwar.org/research/middle-east/indicators-of-iranian-regime-instability/).

They are used to crack down on anti-government protests and enforce regime control. For example, during the February 21st to February 24th, 2026 student demonstrations in Tehran, where students participated in major-anti-government rallies and 40-day memories for those killed during the violent state crackdown in January 2026, armed units were deployed to university campuses to suppress the protests (https://www.npr.org/2026/02/22/nx-s1-5722880/university-students-hold-new-protests-in-iran-around-memorials-for-those-killed).

During the 2026 IRGC-Israel War, the Basij Paramilitary was used as a tool for the IRGC to maintain order and suppress opposition. However, the IDF strikes have targeted their command centers in Tehran, checkpoints, roadblocks, and bases in Ilam Province, highlighting the significance of strict regime control and security (https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-889807).

Furthermore, their role extends beyond physical security. Other operations include cyber operations to protect the regime from domestic and foreign threats. Although their members have been targeted during Operations Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, the Basij remains a key symbol for the IRGC’s resilience and strategy to manage regional challenges during times of conflict.