Iran’s Revolutionary Guard at the Forefront of Escalating Conflict

Recent attacks between the United States, Israel and Iran have thrust Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) into a central role. Following a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran, President Donald Trump called on IRGC conscripts to surrender, a plea that was met with retaliatory drone and missile strikes against Israel and Arab states hosting US assets . The conflict has already resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , signaling a significant escalation in tensions.

What is the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps?

Established in 1979 after the Islamic Revolution, the IRGC is an elite armed force and a constitutionally recognized component of the Iranian military . It operates alongside the regular Iranian army but answers directly to the Supreme Leader . The IRGC’s origins lie in protecting the new Shiite cleric-overseen government .

Growth and Expansion of the IRGC

During the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, the IRGC grew in prominence and power. Under Ayatollah Khamenei, the IRGC was granted powers to expand into private enterprise, allowing it to thrive and diversify its economic activities . The IRGC now runs a massive construction company, Khatam al-Anbia, and has firms involved in road construction, port management, telecommunications, and even medical services like laser eye surgery .

IRGC’s Role in Regional Conflicts

The IRGC has become a powerful force within Iran’s theocracy, overseeing the country’s ballistic missile arsenal and launching attacks in the region . The recent widening of attacks across the Middle East, following the US-Israeli airstrike campaign, underscores the IRGC’s central role in the escalating conflict . The IRGC was founded to defend Iran against both internal and external threats .

Recent Developments

On Sunday, the US reported destroying the headquarters of the IRGC and announced the first American casualties in the conflict . The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei represents a significant turning point, though its impact on the future of the Iranian regime remains to be seen.