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The IRGC was established due to the lack of trust in the Iranian army by the new government, which had previously served the Shah. IMAGO/UPI
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The IRGC gained significant power during the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), which enhanced their military and political power in Iran. IMAGO/Keystone Press Agency
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The IRGC holds significant power and control over the Iranian military divisions, such as the ground forces, the Persian Gulf navy, and the missile and drone programs. IMAGO/Hossein Fatemi
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The IRGC operates outside Iran through the Quds Force, the special unit of the IRGC, which assists the armed groups in Iran's allied countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. imago stock&people
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The IRGC is also feared due to the use of missiles and drones and the ability to operate both openly and covertly. IMAGO/Hossein Fatemi
6/9
The United States regards the IRGC as a terrorist organization and has placed significant sanctions against the country due to the killing of the Quds Force leader Qasem Soleimani in 2020. IMAGO/Iranian Presidency
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On the other hand, the Israelis believe the IRGC poses a significant threat to them due to Iran's alliance with Hezbollah and other groups, and the Israelis have launched airstrikes against the IRGC. IMAGO/Hossein Fatemi
8/9
Inside Iran, the IRGC holds significant economic and political power and plays a role in controlling the protests and the regime. IMAGO/Hossein Fatemi
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The IRGC has vowed the most powerful operation to avenge the killing of Iran's supreme leader. IMAGO/Damoun Pournemati
