Iran's supreme leader runs 'state within a state' through secret 4,000-person network, report says

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 4 min read 100% complete by Efrat LachterFebruary 26, 2026 at 12:04 AM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

A new report by United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) reveals that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, controls a vast, clandestine network known as the Bayt, or Office of the Supreme Leader. This 4,000-person organization, with tens of thousands more affiliated, operates as a "state within a state," exerting influence across Iran's military, economy, religious institutions, and state bureaucracy. The Bayt allows Khamenei to maintain absolute control over decision-making, including nuclear policy, war planning, and internal security. Senior military promotions require the Supreme Leader's approval, and parallel counterintelligence bodies monitor loyalty. The Bayt also duplicates state ministries, enabling direct oversight of government agencies, universities, and cultural institutions.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Fox News Digital 30% Trump ×230% Saeid Golkar 60% Mojtaba Khamenei 70% United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) 70% Islamic Republic 70% Kasra Aarabi ×580% Iran ×790% Bayt (Office of the Supreme Leader) ×795% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×5100%

Keywords

supreme leader 100% iran 90% state within a state 90% khamenei 80% bayt 80% regime control 70% nuclear policy 60% internal security 50% military 50% islamic republic 40%