Establishing a Trained Basij Network based on Combat Medicine Experiences from the Islamic Resistance Front

Background and Aim: Combat medicine training plays a vital role in enhancing the capabilities of civilian defense forces during crises and wartime situations. This training focuses on first aid skills, emergency treatment, and casualty management on the battlefield, which in turn increases rapid response capacity and reduces human casualties. Training is a fundamental pillar in dealing with mass casualties. As a flexible and community-based force, civilian defense units can effectively respond to threats and support affected communities by utilizing this knowledge. Developing and expanding combat medicine training will strengthen self-reliance and contribute to national synergy during wartime and crises. Combat medicine experience from various battlefields can play a key role in improving civilian defense force training. These experiences, gained from real war and crisis conditions, can help transfer practical knowledge and hands-on skills in rescue operations, casualty management, and preventive measures.
Methods: This study was qualitative descriptive research with an applied approach. Data were collected through three main sources: 1) analysis of official documentation and reports of health treatment operations in the Islamic Resistance Front during the years 2011-2023; 2) semi-structured interviews with experts in the field of combat medicine, including doctors, nurses, and field commanders with direct experience in conflict areas; and 3) review of training documents and courses held for popular mobilization forces and jihadi volunteers in operational areas. Additionally, the proposed model for the trained Basij network was developed using concepts of open systems and hierarchical training models in crisis and war.
Results: The analysis of qualitative data led to the identification of four main themes in creating a trained Basij network based on experiences in combat medicine on the resistance front: 1) The necessity of a structured and hierarchical organization for training; 2) The crucial role of practical training and field exercises in enhancing effectiveness; 3) Using the objective experiences from combat medicine on the resistance front to design syllabuses; 4) Establishing local training-oriented cores whithin the Basij structure.
Conclusion: Utilizing field experiences makes the trainings more realistic and efficient, and increases the ability of the people's forces to respond quickly and effectively. Sharing these experiences will not only enhance knowledge but also contribute to synergy at the national level, fostering greater readiness to deal with the challenges of crisis and war.