In this conference, Dr. Khoushnevissan, the university president, discussed the formation of the Basij in Iran. He added: With the establishment of the Basij in the early days of the revolution and the familiarity of the hypocrites with Basij ideology, they pondered the formation of similar groups, for instance, the militia group. The purpose of establishing such groups has been to defend or enforce laws in emergency situations.
Dr. Hatami also, while commemorating Basij Week, added: The seed of this blessed tree dates back to before the revolution. The activities of the Basij can be seen at every moment in the history of the revolution. If it were not for the Basij's efforts during the eight years of sacred defense, we would not have been victorious, and it was the Basij that determined the fate of the war.He referenced the story of martyr Chamran, stating: Chamran is a true and full-fledged example of a Basiji, so much so that the Supreme Leader (may his shadow last) considered him a Basiji scholar.
Dr. Hatami stated: Being a Basiji has no relation to social class, gender, and so on. For example, Farangis Heydari, an eighteen-year-old female Basiji from Gilan-e Gharb, defended her family and country with an axe by killing and capturing Iraqi soldiers.