Counterterrorism officials in Pakistan say that Iran has recruited some 6000 Shiite Muslims from Afghanistan and Pakistan to fight alongside Syrian President Bashar al Assad. The Associated Press reported Iran is promising them housing, a monthly salary of up to $600 and a chance of employment in Iran when they return. The fighters are organized in their own brigades, and Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has praised their actions. These warriors are fighting Islamic State and officials in Pakistan and Afghanistan say Islamic State could retaliate against Shiites in their countries.
Sign Up for Mideast Daily News
Wake up to the Trusted Mideast News source
By subscribing, you agree to The Media Line terms of use and privacy policy.