# Iranian academic discourse on cognitive warfare > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/iranian-academic-discourse-on-cognitive-warfare > Updated: 2026-10-26T11:56:17.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Iranian religious and academic figures have highlighted the growing threat of cognitive warfare, emphasizing the need for social resilience and psychological defense. In Qom, seminary professor Seyyed Mohammad Hossein Raji described the necessity of ‘insight’ (basirat) to distinguish reality from conflicting media narratives. He warned that failing to recognize the strategic goals of opponents could weaken the spirit of resistance and lead to errors during critical historical periods. Similarly, officials at Kharazmi University and Alborz universities warned that adversaries use media tools to induce despair and alter public beliefs. Ali-Akbar Imani, Cultural Deputy at Kharazmi University, noted that modern conflict extends into cognitive domains to weaken the will of resistance. Morteza Motaharpour, representing the Supreme Leader’s office, argued that the most effective defense against the distortion of reality is the ‘accurate and honest narration of facts’ to maintain social trust. ## Claims - Adversaries use media and cognitive warfare to spread despair and weaken resistance. (single source) - Cognitive warfare targets beliefs, perceptions, and lifestyles rather than physical territory. (single source) - Accurate narration of facts is a key method to counter the distortion of public opinion. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-10-26: Iranian academics address cognitive warfare and social resilience Iranian academic leaders warn against cognitive warfare and media-driven despair, calling for accurate reporting and national identity to protect public perception and social resilience. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/iranian-academics-address-cognitive-warfare-and-social-resilience ### 2026-10-26: Seyyed Mohammad Hossein Raji discusses cognitive warfare in Qom Seyyed Mohammad Hossein Raji warned against cognitive warfare and the importance of insight in navigating conflicting media narratives during a speech at the Fatimah Masumeh Shrine. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seyyed-mohammad-hossein-raji-discusses-cognitive-warfare-in-qom --- Cite as: Iranian academic discourse on cognitive warfare. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/iranian-academic-discourse-on-cognitive-warfare