Iranian hard-line theorist arrested for criticizing the army
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Iran's official IRNA news agency is reporting that authorities have arrested a hard-line theorist for criticizing the Iranian army.
The report Wednesday says Hassan Abbasi, the head of the Centre for Doctrinal Strategic Studies, a think-tank, was arrested on charges of "spreading lies" and "creating an atmosphere of skepticism about the armed forces."
In a video published on social media networks in Iran, Abbasi, who calls himself the "Kissinger of Islam," criticizes the army for inaction, particularly when it comes to social and political issues.
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He later appeared in a military court, and defended his remarks. They drew strong condemnation from the army and the powerful hard-line military group, the Revolutionary Guards.
Abbasi is known in Iran for his divisive speeches on subjects including economics, history, politics and cinema.