The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is one of the most powerful and influential organizations in Iran. It was created in 1979 after the Islamic Revolution, by the order of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The main goal of the IRGC was to protect the newly formed Islamic Republic and make sure that no one tried to overturn the revolution. Over the years, the group has grown in size, power, and responsibilities.
The IRGC operates separately from Iran’s regular military, known as the Artesh. While the regular army focuses on defending Iran from foreign threats, the IRGC is responsible for protecting the country’s Islamic system and dealing with both internal and external threats. It answers directly to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which gives it special power beyond the control of the president or parliament.
The IRGC is divided into several branches. One of the most well-known is the Quds Force, which handles Iran’s operations outside its borders. The Quds Force has supported and trained militia groups in countries like Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. It became globally known under the leadership of General Qassem Soleimani, who was killed in a U.S. drone strike in 2020. The Quds Force has played a major role in helping Syrian President Bashar al-Assad during the civil war and in fighting against ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
Another key part of the IRGC is the Basij Resistance Force. This is a volunteer militia group made up of ordinary citizens who are loyal to the regime. The Basij is often used to control protests, enforce Islamic laws, and monitor citizens. It has been active during times of political unrest in Iran and has been accused of using force against peaceful protesters.
The IRGC also has its own Aerospace Force, which is responsible for Iran’s missile and drone programs. This branch has developed and launched ballistic missiles and satellites. It has been involved in recent attacks and military actions, including launching drones and missiles at enemy targets in the region. These capabilities make the IRGC a central part of Iran’s defense and a concern for other countries, especially the United States and Israel.
The power of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps does not stop at military activities. The group also has major influence over Iran’s economy. Through companies and organizations it controls, the IRGC is involved in construction, oil, telecommunications, and banking. One of its biggest business arms is Khatam al-Anbiya Construction Headquarters, which handles large building projects. This economic control helps the IRGC fund its activities and increases its influence in political matters.
The United States designated the IRGC as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in April 2019. This marked the first time the U.S. labeled part of another country’s military as a terrorist group. The decision was based on the IRGC’s support for attacks on U.S. forces and its role in spreading violence through proxy groups across the Middle East. The U.S. and some of its allies see the IRGC as a serious threat to peace and security.
In recent years, the IRGC has faced attacks from Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency. Israeli operations have targeted senior IRGC leaders and key military sites inside Iran. These strikes are part of a wider effort to slow down Iran’s nuclear program and limit the IRGC’s ability to strike abroad.
Today, the IRGC remains a central force in Iran’s military, political, and economic life. Its deep involvement in foreign operations, domestic control, and major industries gives it a level of power unmatched by most other institutions in Iran. With strong backing from the Supreme Leader and a wide network of influence, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps continues to shape the future of Iran and its role in the region.
