The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a branch of the Iranian military. While the Iranian Army is the Islamic Republic's traditional military, the IRGC is focused on ensuring Iran's "integrity," which is often interpreted as meeting Tehran's foreign objectives as well as safeguarding the country from foreign interference.
The IRGC is made up of five core branches: The Ground Forces, which focus on putting down internal dissent as well as projecting power abroad; the Aerospace Force, which operates aircraft, missiles, and satellites; the Navy, which uses fast attack boats for asymmetric hit-and-run tactics; the Quds Force, which focuses on military intelligence and extraterritorial operations; and the Basij, a volunteer paramilitary group.
Its current leader is Maj.-Gen. Hossein Salami.
A total of 80% of Jewish Israelis surveyed reported supporting the strike as “the right thing to do.” However, the majority of Arab-Israelis (67%) felt it was “the wrong course of action.”
Tehran openly targeted Israel for the first time on April 13 with more than 300 missiles and drones in what it said was retaliation for Israel's suspected deadly bombing of its embassy compound.
Israel worries for remaining hostages • State indicts Haniyeh's sister • Terror in West Bank • New details emerge about missile strike in Iran • US to sanction IDF unit
Iran's assault on Israel highlights the arab nations' struggle with Iran's influence.
The conflict between Israel and Iran highlights the destructive role of the Iranian regime and the potential for positive change through regime change.
Bloomberg reported Israel's attack on Iran's consulate in Syria, killing Revolutionary Guards' command, prompting Iran to suspect Syria's involvement in previous assassinations.
If no nuclear sites were hit, the response might be viewed as limited by Iran and the West.
Those who claimed that Iran's drone and missile attacks on Israel were strong and just responses are now saying the Israeli strike was weak and an unnecessary escalation.
Amid concerns of an Israeli retaliation strike onto Iran, Iran has evacuated IRGC and Hezbollah commanders stationed within Syria.
The UK has already imposed sanctions on the IRGC and some of its commanders, preventing them from opening bank accounts or engaging in financial transactions in the UK.
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