Abstract

In the ancient and medieval Iranian culture and literature, the terms 'Shirzan' and 'Shirdokht/Shirdokhtar,' signifying 'lionesses,' are recurrent, embodying the esteemed status and courage of Iranian women throughout history.

 

Referring to Iranian women and girls as 'lionesses' not only possesses profound roots in ancient history but also positions the Iranian nation as a trailblazer in bestowing such honour upon its women, particularly the distinguished female warriors such as Gordafarid and eminent mother warriors like Rudabeh, the matriarch of Rosatam, the preeminent Iranian paladin. Numerous references to these formidable women bearing such a title are encountered, notably within the Shahnama (the Book of Kings) by Ferdowsi and Nezami. This distinction, notably evident in modern times too, accurately characterises the women and valiant individuals of Iran who, over the past four decades, have relentlessly risen against the misogynistic Islamic regime. Their unwavering efforts have weakened the regime to such an extent that it foresees no viable path forward, succumbing to failure and defeat. This metamorphosis might earn them another title, that of the 'Kaveh the Blacksmith' of our time, who will ultimately liberate Iran from the clutches of its tyrannical and despotic rulers.

 

 

Our Resilient Lionesses

In the backdrop of Iran's 75-million-strong people grappling with pervasive issues of corruption, inflation, unemployment, and discriminatory policies imposed by the Islamic regime, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's recent echoes of Ali Khamenei's impractical proclamation demand closer examination. The audacious claim that Iran's supposedly flourishing economy is equipped to manage and secure a population exceeding 150 million resonates with echoes of Ruhollah Khomeini's deceptive promises made three decades prior, where aspirations of universal homeownership proved elusive.

 

The verbose proclamations championed by the burgeoning regime's populists, who harbour ambitions to cultivate a formidable militia of 150 million and establish an expansive Shia empire, are indicative of a profound misunderstanding on several fronts. Firstly, the glaring financial implausibility stems from Iran's economy precariously balancing on the brink of collapse, a consequence of:

 

a. Inadequate comprehension of economic dynamics and the lamentable mismanagement of the country. The regime manages the economy of the country as a village economy.

 

b. Placing Iran in par with superpowers, particularly the United States, that brought sanctions and further misery and hardship to the Iranian people.

 

c. Rampant corruption, notably underscored by the regime leader's manipulation of the country's resources, diverting them towards banks in Western nations, thereby further eroding their credibility;

 

d. The regime's involvement in fostering various terrorist groups in the Middle East, such as Hezbollah and Hamas, brings forth a nefarious dimension that exacts a heavy toll on both regional stability and the Iranian nation. The repercussions extend beyond the immediate geopolitical ramifications to a more visceral impact on the lives of Iranian citizens.

 

The financial and human costs borne by the Iranian people due to the regime's support for terrorism are in fact considerable. The funnelling of notable resources towards these terrorist groups depletes the nation's coffers, exacerbating the economic woes already afflicting the Iranian population. This diversion of funds towards fuelling regional conflicts, rather than addressing the pressing internal needs, reflects a callous prioritisation that directly harms the well-being of Iranian citizens.

 

Moreover, the victims of the terrorism sponsored by the regime are not confined to distant lands; the Iranian nation itself bears witness to the harrowing consequences of such policies. The perpetuation of violence and instability in neighbouring countries, facilitated by the regime's support for groups like Hezbollah, has a spillover effect. Iranian civilians often find themselves caught in the crossfire, facing the tragic consequences of the very terrorism that their government sponsors.

 

This reality underscores a severe disconnect between the regime's actions and the well-being of its own citizens. The Iranian nation not only grapples with the economic fallout of supporting such activities but also becomes unwitting victims of the ensuing violence. The toll on human lives, coupled with the economic strain, underscores the detrimental impact of the regime's policies on the Iranian people, painting a stark picture of the human cost paid by Iran as a victim of its own government's actions.

 

These realities, coupled with the disproportionate diversion of Iranian income, leave meagre resources for the Iranian nation, rendering them unable to sustain themselves, let alone contemplate the notion of expanding families that are unable to meet their basic needs. This considerable factor notablely contributes to the recent decline in the standard of living, a trajectory likely to persist as long as the current regime retains its grip on power.

 

The second pivotal oversight by the regime lies in their naive disregard for a fundamental reality, the role of Iranian women. Even in the hypothetical scenario of Iran's population swelling to 150 million, half of this demographic would comprise women. Paradoxically, these individuals are perceived as thorns in the regime's eyes, thus underscoring a fundamental contradiction inherent in their vision for a prospective empire. The systemic marginalisation of women contradicts the very essence of a sustainable and thriving societal structure, portraying a glaring flaw in the regime's strategic vision.

 

Throughout its tumultuous history, the regime has displayed noteworthy adeptness in quashing the slightest hints of dissent, effectively suppressing movements and silencing opposing voices. The lionesses in question, however, transcend the conventional narrative of resistance. They do not merely defy the constraints imposed by Islamic backwardness; instead, they shatter them with an audacity that resonates through almost a century of defiance.

 

Under the guiding hand of Reza Shah the Great, these indomitable spirits experienced an awakening of dormant lions within. This transformative moment, occurring almost a century ago, marked a pivotal juncture. It was under the visionary per leadership of Reza Shah that the seeds of rebellion were sown, sprouting into the resolute defiance witnessed today. The lionesses, galvanized by the principles instilled during this transformative era, stand impervious to any attempts at subjugation.

 

Their resilience is not merely a reaction to the oppressive tactics of the regime but a profound assertion of autonomy and liberty. The echoes of that transformative awakening persist, resonating through the years and forging a legacy of unyielding determination. As these lionesses continue to navigate the complex socio-political landscape, they carry with them the enduring spirit kindled by Reza Shah almost a century ago, a spirit that refuses to be subdued or silenced.

 

Hence, in a terrain overshadowed by the oppressive strategies of the regime, the unyielding resilience exhibited by these lionesses emerges as a luminous beacon of hope. Their defiance stands not only as a testament to the irrepressible nature of their historical identity and spirit but also as an embodiment of an innate drive for liberty that transcends temporal constraints.

 

As the regime doggedly clings to its rhetoric and pursues impractical ambitions, it is the lionesses of Iran who stand as an indomitable force. They boldly challenge the prevailing status quo, embodying a steadfast commitment to the unrelenting pursuit of freedom in the face of adversity. In their collective stand, these lionesses exemplify a legacy that resists being overshadowed or diminished, an enduring testament to the human spirit's perennial quest for emancipation.

 

 

Lionesses: The Greatest Political Movement

Since the heinous murder of Dr. Shapour Bakhtiar on 6 August 1991, orchestrated by the executioners of the despotic Islamic regime in collusion with the then French government, the National Resistance Movement of Iran, the sole cohesive and organised opposition that dared to confront the power-hungry Islamic regimes, perished with him. His demise marked the end of a movement that sought to terminate tyranny and usher in a national, free, democratic, and secular Iran.

 

Subsequent to this tragic event, a multitude of opposition movements have arisen. Regrettably, none have exhibited the necessary autonomy, political acumen, or capability to directly counter the multifaceted threats posed by the regime. Amidst the landscape of failures and inadequacies characterising these political groups, it is the lionesses of Iran alone who have demonstrated a resilient defiance against the regime's aggression.

 

In a political arena fraught with factionalism and the struggle for dominance, these lionesses emerge as a symbol of unwavering courage. While other opposition movements falter, lacking the historical foundation, political sagacity, or capacity to confront the regime, the lionesses stand resolute. Their steadfast resistance serves as a testament to the enduring spirit that refuses to be subdued, even in the face of formidable challenges posed by the oppressive regime.

 

However, in steadfast response, the Iranian lionesses have continually faced insult, assault, inequalities, injustices, humiliations, and unwarranted criticisms. Their endurance extends beyond the oppressive reach of the clerical regime, encompassing challenges from numerous male compatriots whose sensibilities have been infected by an Islam-like virus, eroding their sense of humanity and humility. Yet, akin to the mighty Mount Damavand, they have endured and resisted with unwavering dignity against all odds, utilising every opportunity to defy oppression. This resilience stems from the Iranian woman's possession of two formidable weapons: firstly, the inherent gift of endurance and resilience that transcends that of men, and secondly, the millennia-old spirit and genetic legacy of a warrior that forms the bedrock of their existence.

 

A meticulous examination of our country's history unveils the formidable stature of the 'Iranian woman,' a force acknowledged even by her adversaries. Herodotus, for instance, recounts the existence of warrior women in Iran, known for their dedication to the craft of horseback riding and archery, so much so that they would willingly sacrifice one of their breasts for greater efficiency. Roman historians contemporary to the Parthian dynasty report that Iranian women consistently donned war attire, even during sleep, armed with swords, arrows, and bows to be ever-ready for defence against potential enemy invasions.

 

During the Sassanid era, Romans chronicled the 300-year wars with Iran, attesting not only to the right of Iranian women to serve in the Sassanid army but also to their proven prowess as formidable and even perilous warriors. Noteworthy is the female General Gorgu, who led the mighty Cataphracts and struck fear into the hearts of Roman legionaries. This martial legacy endured through the Islamic era, where historical records indicate the active participation of 'Iranian women' in battles against Ottoman Turks, with instances such as 'Tajalli Khanum,' the wife and queen of Shah Isma'il I, demonstrating noteworthy valour and strategic acumen in escaping captivity.

 

The martial spirit, courage, and bravery exhibited by Iranian women are not transient attributes; rather, they are scientific, genetic, and historical traits embedded in their very nature. It is imperative that populists and religious demagogues, despite their cunning and deceptive tactics, comprehend this evolving phenomenon. The increase in population signifies the rise of Iranian Lionesses, a force that I ardently believe will one day dismantle this tyrannical, fascist Islamic regime, restoring freedom, democracy, and prosperity to Iran.

 

I extend my salute to every single lioness, acknowledging that our existence would be incomplete without their presence on this Earth.

 

Shapour Suren-Pahlav

20 April 2010