Iran's Secret Service: Unveiling The Shadows Of Power

Eveline McDermott 19 Jun 2025

The clandestine world of intelligence agencies is often shrouded in mystery, and few are as enigmatic and impactful as Iran's secret service. From its historical roots in the Imperial era to its modern-day manifestations, this apparatus plays a pivotal role in shaping Iran's domestic policies and international relations. Understanding its evolution, key players, and operational methods is crucial to comprehending the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and beyond.

This article delves deep into the intricate network of Iran's intelligence operations, exploring its transformation from the Pahlavi dynasty's formidable SAVAK to the Islamic Republic's multifaceted Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). We will uncover significant events, alleged covert operations, and the challenges faced by these powerful, yet often unseen, entities that stand at the forefront of Iran's national security.

The Genesis of Iranian Intelligence: From SAVAK to MOIS
- The Imperial Era: SAVAK's Reign
- The Islamic Republic's New Guard: The Ministry of Intelligence (MOIS)
MOIS: Structure, Scope, and Global Reach
The Shadow War: Iran's Secret Service vs. External Threats
- The Mossad Infiltration Scandal: A Double Agent's Tale
- Allegations of Assassination Plots: The Trump Case
Iran's Evolving Cyber Warfare Capabilities: Oghab 21
The Nuclear Dimension: Intelligence and International Scrutiny
Challenges and Controversies Facing Iran's Secret Service
The Future Landscape of Iran's Intelligence Operations

The Genesis of Iranian Intelligence: From SAVAK to MOIS

The history of Iran's intelligence apparatus is a tale of profound transformation, mirroring the seismic shifts in the nation's political landscape. What began as an instrument of state control under the monarchy evolved into a complex system designed to protect the Islamic Revolution's ideals and interests. The transition from the Imperial State's security forces to the Islamic Republic's intelligence agencies was not merely a change in name but a fundamental reorientation of purpose and methodology.

The Imperial Era: SAVAK's Reign

Before the Islamic Revolution, the primary intelligence and secret police force of the Imperial State of Iran was the Bureau for Intelligence and Security of the State, widely known by its acronym, SAVAK (Persian: سازمان اطلاعات و امنیت کشور, romanized: Sâzmân-e Ettelâ'ât va Amniyyat-e Kešvar). Established in Tehran in 1957 by the Pahlavi Dynasty, SAVAK's initial mandate was clear: to counter political and religious activism inside the Iranian Republic. For over two decades, until 1979, SAVAK operated with considerable autonomy and power, becoming synonymous with the Shah's authoritarian rule. Its methods, often brutal, were aimed at suppressing dissent and maintaining the monarchy's grip on power. As the revolution gained momentum, SAVAK became a symbol of the Shah's oppressive regime, and its elimination was a key demand of the revolutionaries. After the Shah’s government fell, SAVAK and other intelligence services were indeed eliminated, paving the way for a new era of intelligence operations.

The Islamic Republic's New Guard: The Ministry of Intelligence (MOIS)

Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the newly established Islamic Republic of Iran dismantled the remnants of the imperial intelligence structure and began to build its own. This led to the creation and development of the Ministry of Intelligence of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Persian: وزارت اطّلاعات جمهوری اسلامی ایران, romanized: Vezarat-e Ettela'at Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye Iran), also known as the Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). MOIS emerged as the primary intelligence agency and secret police force of the Islamic Republic of Iran, effectively taking over the mantle of national security and intelligence gathering. It is a central member of the broader "Iran Intelligence" community, coordinating various efforts across different state bodies. While sharing the function of internal security with its predecessor, MOIS's ideological underpinnings and operational focus shifted dramatically, aligning with the principles and objectives of the Islamic Revolution, both domestically and internationally. This marked a significant evolution in Iran's intelligence apparatus, tracing its transformation from the establishment of SAVAK during the Pahlavi era to the creation and development of MOIS after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

MOIS: Structure, Scope, and Global Reach

The Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) stands as the cornerstone of Iran's national security architecture. Unlike its predecessor, SAVAK, which was primarily focused on internal suppression, MOIS operates with a far broader mandate, encompassing both domestic counter-intelligence and extensive foreign operations. Its structure is highly centralized, with various departments dedicated to different aspects of intelligence gathering, analysis, and covert action. MOIS is responsible for protecting the Islamic Republic from internal threats, such as dissent and espionage, and external threats, including foreign intelligence agencies and terrorist organizations. This dual role makes MOIS a formidable entity, deeply embedded in the fabric of the Iranian state.

The scope of MOIS's activities extends well beyond Iran's borders. It engages in intelligence collection, counter-terrorism operations, and covert actions across the Middle East and globally, often working in conjunction with other elements of Iran's security establishment, such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force. MOIS agents are known to operate in various countries, gathering intelligence, monitoring Iranian expatriate communities, and allegedly engaging in activities aimed at advancing Iran's strategic interests. This global reach underscores the ministry's importance in Iran's foreign policy and its efforts to project power and influence on the international stage. The operations of Iran's secret service are thus not confined to its geographical boundaries but ripple across continents, affecting diplomatic relations and regional stability.

The Shadow War: Iran's Secret Service vs. External Threats

In the complex tapestry of international relations, Iran's secret service is constantly engaged in a shadow war against perceived adversaries. This clandestine struggle often involves high-stakes espionage, counter-espionage, and covert operations that rarely see the light of day. Two prominent examples highlight the intensity and implications of this ongoing conflict: the alleged infiltration by Israeli intelligence and a reported plot against a former U.S. president.

The Mossad Infiltration Scandal: A Double Agent's Tale

One of the most astonishing claims regarding the vulnerability of Iran's intelligence services came from former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He alleged in an interview that the head of an Iranian secret service unit specifically set up to target Mossad agents working in the Islamic Republic turned out to be an Israeli agent himself. This was not an isolated incident, according to Ahmadinejad, who further claimed that this individual was part of a larger network of 20 other agents. These double agents, he alleged, were responsible for multiple operations within Iran, including the audacious theft of sensitive nuclear documents and the assassination of several Iranian nuclear scientists before they reportedly fled the country. These claims come amidst a backdrop of past Israeli espionage efforts, which have included Israel’s historic strike on Iran that revealed years of Mossad activity inside the country, including hidden weapons, drones, and assassinations of nuclear officials. The notion that Iran's secret services had created a special unit to combat Mossad operating in Iran, only for its head to be a Mossad agent, along with 20 others, underscores the depth of the intelligence war and the sophisticated tactics employed by both sides.

Allegations of Assassination Plots: The Trump Case

The reach of Iran's intelligence activities has also been a subject of grave concern for Western nations. In a particularly alarming development, US authorities obtained intelligence from a human source in recent weeks on a plot by Iran to try to assassinate Donald Trump. This revelation immediately led to the Secret Service increasing security around the former president. The threat from Iran prompted the U.S. Secret Service to boost protection around Donald Trump before a Saturday rally, for instance, in response to this potential Iranian assassination plot against Trump. This incident highlights the perceived willingness of elements within Iran's secret service to engage in high-profile, politically charged operations on foreign soil, potentially escalating international tensions to dangerous levels. The Secret Service had stepped up security for Trump’s Butler rally in response to this intelligence, showcasing the serious nature with which such threats are handled by U.S. authorities.

Iran's Evolving Cyber Warfare Capabilities: Oghab 21

In the modern era, the battlefield has expanded into the digital realm, and Iran has demonstrated a growing proficiency in utilizing cyber capabilities for intelligence gathering and secret operations. Among the various units engaged in this domain, "Oghab 21" has emerged as a significant player. Oghab 21’s cyber operations have left a significant impact on various countries and sectors, showcasing Iran’s expertise in this critical area of modern warfare and espionage. This unit's activities are a testament to Iran's investment in developing sophisticated cyber tools and tactics, allowing its secret service to project power and gather intelligence without traditional physical presence.

Here are specific instances where Oghab 21’s activities have come to light: One notable case involves a cyberattack on Bahrain’s National Oil Company (BAPCO). This incident, among others, illustrates the strategic targets of Iran's cyber operations, which often aim at critical infrastructure or sensitive data of perceived adversaries or regional rivals. Such attacks serve multiple purposes: intelligence gathering, disruption, and demonstrating capabilities. The ability to conduct such operations remotely provides Iran's secret service with a potent, deniable tool for influencing events and gathering information, further complicating the already intricate web of international relations and cybersecurity challenges.

The Nuclear Dimension: Intelligence and International Scrutiny

The Iranian nuclear program has long been a flashpoint in international relations, and the role of Iran's secret service in its development and protection is undeniable. The program's clandestine aspects and the international community's efforts to monitor and curb its progress have placed Iran's intelligence agencies at the heart of a global high-stakes game. The intersection of nuclear ambitions and covert operations creates a complex environment ripe for espionage and counter-espionage.

The allegations made by former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad about Mossad's infiltration of Iran's intelligence services gain particular significance when viewed through the lens of the nuclear program. He alleges that double agents provided sensitive information, particularly related to Iran's nuclear program. If true, such breaches would represent a profound compromise of national security, potentially allowing adversaries to gain insights into Iran's nuclear capabilities, plans, and vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the release of documents, presumably obtained through intelligence operations, supported claims that Iran was not abiding by the provisions of the nuclear deal, which aimed to reduce Iran's nuclear aspirations in exchange for the removal of sanctions. This suggests that intelligence gathering by external actors directly influenced the international perception and enforcement of the nuclear agreement. The constant interplay between Iran's efforts to advance its nuclear program and the intelligence operations aimed at monitoring or disrupting it underscores the critical and sensitive role played by Iran's secret service in this global saga.

Challenges and Controversies Facing Iran's Secret Service

Like any powerful intelligence agency, Iran's secret service operates amidst a myriad of challenges and controversies, both internal and external. These issues often stem from the inherent nature of clandestine operations, geopolitical tensions, and the delicate balance between national security and individual freedoms. One significant challenge, particularly in the aftermath of the 1979 revolution, was the question of loyalty and continuity. After the Shah’s government fell, SAVAK and other intelligence services were eliminated and new ones formed. It is unknown how many members MOIS kept from the latter organization because of loyalty being in question. This period of transition likely involved purges and intense scrutiny, potentially impacting institutional knowledge and operational efficiency in the short term.

Externally, Iran's secret service faces sophisticated adversaries. The alleged Mossad infiltration, as claimed by Ahmadinejad, highlights the persistent threat of foreign espionage and the difficulty of maintaining impenetrable security, even within top-tier counter-intelligence units. The need to counter highly capable intelligence agencies like Mossad and the CIA demands constant vigilance, significant resources, and adaptability. Furthermore, the controversial nature of some alleged operations, such as assassination plots or cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, draws international condemnation and sanctions, adding diplomatic and political pressure. Balancing the imperative of national security with international norms and human rights concerns remains a perennial challenge for Iran's secret service, often leading to accusations of human rights abuses, a common criticism leveled against secret police forces globally. These controversies not only tarnish Iran's international image but also create internal debates about the agency's methods and oversight.

The Future Landscape of Iran's Intelligence Operations

The trajectory of Iran's intelligence operations is likely to be shaped by evolving geopolitical dynamics, technological advancements, and the persistent internal and external challenges faced by the Islamic Republic. As global power shifts and new threats emerge, Iran's secret service will undoubtedly adapt its strategies and capabilities to remain effective in safeguarding national interests and projecting influence. One clear trend is the continued emphasis on cyber warfare. Given the effectiveness and deniability of cyber operations, units like Oghab 21 are expected to receive increased investment and expand their reach, targeting a wider array of adversaries and critical infrastructure globally. This digital frontier will likely become an even more crucial battleground for intelligence gathering and covert action.

Furthermore, the ongoing shadow war with regional rivals and Western powers, particularly Israel and the United States, will continue to define a significant portion of Iran's intelligence activities. Counter-intelligence efforts to prevent infiltration, as well as offensive operations to gather intelligence on adversaries' nuclear programs, military capabilities, and political intentions, will remain a top priority for Iran's secret service. The lessons learned from past alleged infiltrations and counter-intelligence failures will likely drive reforms and enhancements in operational security and personnel vetting. Regionally, Iran's intelligence agencies will continue to play a vital role in supporting proxy groups and extending Iran's influence, particularly in areas of strategic importance. The future landscape will demand greater agility, technological sophistication, and a nuanced understanding of global power dynamics from Iran's intelligence apparatus.

Conclusion

The journey through the world of Iran's secret service reveals a complex and evolving entity, deeply intertwined with the nation's history and its aspirations. From the formidable SAVAK of the Imperial era to the multifaceted Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) of the Islamic Republic, these agencies have consistently played a critical role in shaping Iran's destiny. They have navigated internal upheavals, confronted formidable external adversaries, and adapted to new frontiers of warfare, particularly in the cyber domain.

The allegations of double agents, high-stakes assassination plots, and sophisticated cyberattacks underscore the intense and often perilous nature of their work. As Iran continues to assert its regional and international influence, the role of its intelligence apparatus will remain central, operating in the shadows to protect its interests and project its power. Understanding this clandestine world is not merely an academic exercise; it is essential for comprehending the broader geopolitical currents that define our times. What are your thoughts on the intricate balance between national security and the secretive operations of intelligence agencies? Share your perspectives in the comments below, or explore other articles on our site to deepen your understanding of global security dynamics.

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