War on Iran: How the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps underpins the republic

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful and influential organization in Iran, playing a crucial role in the country's domestic and international affairs. Often referred to as a "state within a state," the IRGC has been a key factor in maintaining the republic's stability and influence since its founding in 1979 by conservative militias.

Led by the supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, the IRGC is composed of five main arms: a ground army, an air force, a navy, an elite overseas wing known as the Quds Force, and a volunteer paramilitary called Basij. The IRGC's size is estimated to be around 150,000 active personnel, with the Basij volunteers numbering between 100,000 and 1 million.

In addition to its military role, the IRGC is deeply embedded in various aspects of Iranian society, including business, politics, education, and sports. Many IRGC veterans hold influential positions in government and parliament, wielding significant power over job applications and business ventures. The Basij volunteers, often acting as "morality police," are responsible for enforcing conservative religious values and suppressing political dissent.

Critics argue that the IRGC's activities have led to human rights violations and widespread repression, particularly during periods of political unrest, such as the protests following the arrest of Mahsa Amini in 2022. Despite its controversial image, the IRGC also provides essential social services, such as relief efforts during natural disasters, and offers employment opportunities in rural areas, earning it a degree of support among certain segments of the population.

Through its Quds Force, the IRGC has been instrumental in supporting various regional groups aligned with Iran, including Hamas in Palestine, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. These ties have solidified Iran's position as a leading player in the region, often referred to as its "Axis of Resistance."