Younesi: There is no ISIS-aligned movement in Iran

The assistant to the President of Iran for ethnic and religious minorities states that there is no movement aligned with the group known as 'Islamic State' in Iran, and 'if someone appears individually, they will certainly be condemned by Sunnis.' On December 8, IRNA quoted Ali Younesi as saying, 'We do not have a movement aligned with ISIS in Iran, nor do we have such individuals among Sunnis, and if anyone does appear individually, they will definitely be condemned by Sunnis.' Younesi also described Iran as 'a pioneer in the fight against ISIS.' His recent statements follow those of various officials of the Islamic Republic regarding the 'Islamic State' group, which has reported threats or 'destruction' of groups intending to carry out explosions or attacks. On November 26, the commander of the 'Nabi Akram' Corps in Kermanshah Province stated that 'many teams' from the 'Islamic State' had been active in this province 'for the past two years' and had been arrested by the Corps and the Ministry of Intelligence. This senior Corps official reported on the activities of these 'teams' for 'recruitment and sending abroad.' In addition, reports have emerged about the 'virtual activities' of the so-called Islamic State group in Iran for 'membership recruitment.' The Iranian Ministry of Intelligence also reported on November 30, without mentioning the identity of individuals, the 'destruction of two terrorist teams' in the provinces of West Azerbaijan and Sistan and Baluchestan. Reports from Tehran indicate an increase in police forces and special units on the streets in recent days. In recent weeks, deadly attacks and explosions have occurred from Lebanon and Turkey to Paris. These attacks have been largely attributed to the Islamic State group, which has either claimed direct responsibility or been identified as responsible for them. This group has also claimed responsibility for the downing of a Russian passenger plane over Egypt. Iranian security officials state they are 'fully prepared' to confront extremist groups. In this context, the commander of the Corps stated that many teams from ISIS have been arrested in Kermanshah Province, and it is unlikely that ISIS can carry out extensive actions in Iran. There has been an increase in the presence of special units in Tehran for 'training to counter threats.'