Who is Saeed Tavakoli? Iranian national wanted by FBI for links to Islamic terror group and alleged violent operations

The FBI is seeking information on Saeed Tavakoli, an Iranian national wanted for his alleged association with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The wanted man goes by the alias Sardar Ammar.

According to federal authorities, Tavakoli is believed to be the chief of IRGC-Qods Force Department 11000. He is alleged to have directed covert intelligence and lethal operations against dissidents, journalists, Israeli citizens, and current and former US government officials in both Europe and the United States.


Tavakoli is also accused of leading a network linked to attempted attacks in Australia, Greece, Germany, and Mexico.

The FBI has released physical details for identification purposes. Tavakoli is a male with gray or white hair, brown eyes, and speaks Farsi.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact their local FBI office or the nearest American embassy or consulate, and the investigation is being handled by the FBI’s Washington, DC field office.

What is the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)?

IRGC is a branch of Iran’s armed forces that answers directly to the country’s Supreme Leader, rather than to elected officials. It was created after the 1979 Iranian Revolution to protect the new theocratic regime and to act as a counterweight to the regular military. The IRGC now operates its own army, navy, air force and intelligence apparatus, and is highly involved in Iran’s politics, economy and regional security efforts. Its external arm, the Quds Force, supports allied groups and conducts overseas operations. The United States and several other countries have designated parts of the IRGC as a terrorist organisation due to its involvement in violence.