The Documentary Podcast What’s Iran’s IRGC?
Jun 18, 2025
Barry Sadeed, a BBC Monitoring Iran expert, unpacks the powerful role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in shaping Iran's influence network. He delves into the historical ties that forged the 'axis of resistance,' exploring how groups like Hezbollah link to the Palestinian cause. Sadeed discusses Iran's geopolitical maneuvers against Israel and the U.S., and the recent escalations since the October 7 attack. The conversation highlights the IRGC's complex legacy and the potential fallout from rising tensions in the region.
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Iran's Resistance Front Explained
- Iran's strategy creates territorial continuity from Iran to Lebanon via Iraq and Syria to support its network.
- This creates what Iran calls the "resistance front" solidifying its regional influence.
Origin of "Axis of Resistance"
- The "axis of resistance" name was a response to George W. Bush's "axis of evil" list.
- It reframes Iran, Iraq, and North Korea as opposing colonial and American interests.
Iran's Revolutionary Strategy
- Iran’s revolutionary ideology limits its export but opposition to US and Israel bridges sectarian divides.
- Its goal is Israel's dissolution and US troop withdrawal without triggering full-scale war.