The State Within a State: Iran's Revolutionary Guards in the Post-Khamenei Era

A comprehensive analysis article on Iran's Revolutionary Guards, describing their transformation into a state within a state and their dominant status after the death of the Supreme Leader. Dr. Menachem Merhavi explains the organization's roots, structure, economic control, and the impact of Operation 'Roar of the Lion' on the balance of power. The possibility that military and economic pressure could lead to change is examined.

A comprehensive analysis article by Dr. Menachem Merhavi on Iran's Revolutionary Guards, published against the backdrop of Britain's declaration of them as a terrorist organization in July 2026, as part of a global wave including the European Union, Australia, Canada, and the United States. The article describes the Guards' evolution from a militia established in 1979 by Khomeini to impose order in the post-revolution chaos, into a regular army during the Iran-Iraq war, and into a multi-branch organization controlling the military, economy, and foreign policy. The five main branches are Air, Sea, Land, Basij, and Quds Force. The Basij is used for internal suppression, and the Quds Force is responsible for proxy ties such as Hezbollah and Hamas. The Guards took over the economy through its veterans managing government companies and controlling customs, exploiting sanctions for personal gain. After Operation 'Roar of the Lion' and Khamenei's death, the Guards became the dominant factor without balance, and President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi are merely official representatives. Merhavi assesses that massive military and economic pressure might work, as the Guards depend on the state, but warns of Iranian double-dealing. The next generation in command may realize the price is too high. Internal problems, repression, and a dire economic situation remain a ticking time bomb.