Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful branch of Iran's military, established in 1979 to protect the country's Islamic system and its revolution. It operates independently of the regular army and has significant influence over Iran's security, economy, and foreign policy, often acting through proxy forces. Recent discussions between Gulf states and US officials, like Senator Marco Rubio, highlight ongoing regional anxieties about Iran's expanding influence and power projection, particularly concerning the perceived inadequacy of recent deals with the US to address these concerns. While not directly mentioned in the provided snippets, the IRGC is frequently implicated in such regional proxy activities and is a key element in Iran's geopolitical strategy. Its actions and influence are a consistent source of tension and concern for neighboring countries and international powers, making it a subject of ongoing scrutiny and diplomatic engagement.