Brigadier General Majid Khademi, head of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Intelligence Organization, said authorities uncovered a seven-stage plan behind recent violent riots in Iran. Khademi explained that external forces tried to turn public protests into strikes as a subtle tool to pressure Iran’s political system. They also aimed to attack security centers and bases, using tactics similar to last year’s June confrontation.
Furthermore, they fabricated deaths to manipulate public sentiment and justify possible foreign intervention. These forces attempted to portray Iran’s government as incapable of handling economic, social, and security issues. Consequently, anti-government groups believed that regime change was achievable. In addition, the scheme involved cyberattacks and sabotage against essential services to disrupt daily life and create public dissatisfaction.
Moreover, terrorist elements were stationed inside Iran and along the borders. These groups tried to link protests to terrorism to create the impression of organized insurgency. Khademi said that extensive funds, including cryptocurrency, supported field forces. These forces included terrorist groups, social media operatives, criminals, and local agitators. However, the plot failed partly because the planners rushed to exploit protests over the recent dollar shortage. As a result, some networks were not fully prepared.
Several other factors contributed to the plan’s collapse. Public distrust of foreign officials, widespread opposition to external interference, and disagreements among anti-government groups weakened the plot. Additionally, national unity within the government, parliament, and domestic political forces helped block the plan. Khademi praised law enforcement for distinguishing peaceful protesters from violent rioters and responding firmly to acts of sabotage. He also highlighted the resilience of Iran’s military and diplomats in countering external threats and protecting national security.
He concluded that these combined efforts prevented a quasi-coup. Therefore, the plan’s failure demonstrates that domestic unity, strong security measures, and public awareness protect Iran’s political and social stability. Khademi underlined that Iran’s security forces can effectively identify agitators while safeguarding ordinary citizens, ensuring the nation’s stability despite complex, multi-stage threats.
