A drill music video by London-based Iranian rapper 021kid, real name Tony Mohraz, has inflamed tensions between rival factions of the Iranian opposition in the UK. The video, posted online, features lyrics calling for violence against the Basij, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK). Mohraz, a supporter of exiled prince Reza Pahlavi, raps: 'Basij, one, two, shoot. IRGC, one, two, shoot. Mojahedin, one, two, shoot.'
The rap is a remix of an Israeli war anthem and was filmed in Golders Green, north London, in front of a memorial wall for those killed in anti-regime protests. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are assessing a report of threatening behaviour in relation to the song. Laila Jazayeri, director of the Association of Anglo-Iranian Women in the UK and a prominent MEK supporter, reported the video, describing it as 'a terrifying and direct incitement to murder members and supporters' of her group.
The clashes are not between regime supporters and opponents but within the opposition itself, between monarchists backing Reza Pahlavi and those who favour a democratic secular republic, such as the MEK. Scuffles at protests have required police intervention, raising concerns about escalation. Jazayeri also expressed alarm at pro-Pahlavi supporters wearing black jackets and T-shirts bearing the insignia of Savak, the shah's feared secret police, calling it 'a direct threat to democratic discourse'.
In the Little Tehran area around Finchley Road, restaurant and cafe owners have reportedly faced pressure from pro-Pahlavi supporters to display the monarchist flag. The tensions come amid heightened hopes among opposition groups following recent US and Israeli military action against Iran.
