Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, established after the 1979 revolution to protect the country's Islamic system. It operates independently of the regular military and wields significant political and economic influence within Iran. The IRGC is newsworthy due to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, specifically the coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran. These attacks have triggered retaliatory strikes, including the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on US and allied targets. The IRGC's involvement in these retaliatory actions and its control over key strategic assets, like the Strait of Hormuz, make it a central player in the current conflict. Its actions directly impact regional stability and global oil supplies, highlighting its current relevance and significance.