How to make a merciless killer out of an Eastern beauty in the name of God.
Nuclear bombs? Threatening mujahideen holding AK-47 and grenade cup discharges? Lots of shahids belted with explosives and ready to take their enemies’ lives in the name of their country? No, no, and no. There’s another deadly weapon. Islamic Republic of Iran calls for 3,000 volunteers to join special ninja-assassin squads. And who are they? Women!
Yes, precisely, they are women. And all that despite a stereotype about women not having rights and being isolated in the Muslim East.
Akbar Faraji, who is preparing the female warriors, says: “My duty as a citizen and a teacher is to protect our country from the aggression that comes from the outside. The deeds of the West towards Iran are the reason why not only men, but women as well must defend our country”. Iranian kunoichi (female ninja in Japanese history) practise both in specialized training halls and in open ground. Eastern weapons, tablets with Chinese characters mix with Ayatollah Khomeini's quotes and portraits thus creating a fascinating contrast.
Young student called Fatima is holding ninja code “Bansenshuukai” translated into Farsi while speaking to the journalists: ”Ninjutsu helps us to learn how to respect ourselves. We strengthen our bodies and harden our spirit.” We don’t know for sure what Fatima’s husband thinks about her “hobbies”. But it’s clear that if there’s an argument she will be able to handle it.
If you find yourself in fairy old Iran, fall in love with melting baklava and beautiful carpets, don’t let yourself become obsessed with Iranian women. Having allured you and taken you under the shadows of Persian silk these beauties can take out kusarigama, shuriken or tantou at any moment. You do agree that the sound of the names of these things is really horrifying, not mentioning their purpose. So take good care of yourself and may Allah be with you.
Cassius Clay