In an unprecedented move, Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has ordered all its personnel to cease using any communication devices following a coordinated attack that targeted Hezbollah's equipment. Thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah in Lebanon were destroyed in the strike, which claimed 39 lives and injured more than 3,000 people, according to two senior Iranian security officials speaking to Reuters.
The IRGC, a powerful force within Iran’s political, military, and economic landscape, is currently conducting a large-scale inspection of all its communication equipment. Much of the hardware destroyed was either homemade or imported from China and Russia, the security officials revealed. They added that Iran is particularly concerned about possible infiltration by Israeli agents, sparking thorough investigations targeting mid- to high-ranking members of the IRGC.
The attacks, which Lebanon and Hezbollah claim were orchestrated by Israel, took place on Tuesday and Wednesday across Hezbollah strongholds. Israel has not commented on its involvement in the attacks.
Increased Security Measures
One senior official indicated that an exhaustive review of personnel is underway, examining everything from bank accounts to travel history. He added, “This scrutiny extends to their families, with a particular focus on potential links to Israeli agents.” The ban on communication devices extends to all IRGC personnel, who are now using end-to-end encrypted messaging systems in the meantime. Hezbollah is providing technical assistance, with some damaged devices sent to Tehran for forensic analysis.
Concerns within Iran's leadership have intensified as the government attempts to protect sensitive nuclear and missile facilities. Security measures at these locations have significantly ramped up since 2023, after Iranian authorities claimed Israel attempted to sabotage Iran’s missile program. Iranian officials insist that current security protocols are the tightest they’ve ever been.
Regional Power Struggle
The IRGC's overseas wing, the Quds Force, has historically exerted significant influence in the Middle East through alliances with Hezbollah, Hamas, and other militant groups. The strike on Hezbollah’s communication infrastructure highlights the ongoing shadow war between Israel and Iran, which has intensified alongside the Gaza conflict, particularly following the October 7 attacks by Hamas on southern Israel.
Tensions between Israel, Iran, and their allies have only deepened following the assassinations of high-profile figures, including Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah's Fuad Shukr in Beirut. While Israel claimed responsibility for Shukr's killing, it has remained silent on Haniyeh’s death.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards are increasingly concerned about espionage, particularly in light of these recent attacks. As a countermeasure, Tehran has sought to reduce its reliance on foreign technology, developing military-grade radio and communication devices domestically. However, in the past, Iran has sourced equipment from countries such as China, Russia, and Japan.
Outlook and Future Risks
Iran’s ruling elite remain wary of potential threats to their national security, particularly concerning their nuclear ambitions. Israel has long accused Iran of secretly trying to build nuclear weapons, while Iran maintains that its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes. The conflict between these two nations is expected to continue escalating, with significant ramifications for the wider Middle East.
Source: Reuters
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