Unmasking Iran's Covert Influence: Unveiling Tehran's Soft War

Yvonne Champlin 19 Jun 2025

**In the intricate world of geopolitics, where nations vie for strategic advantage and ideological supremacy, the concept of "influence" often transcends traditional military might. It delves into the subtle art of shaping perceptions, swaying opinions, and ultimately, altering policy landscapes. For years, whispers and suspicions have circulated regarding Iran's efforts to project its power beyond its borders through non-conventional means. Recent revelations, however, have pulled back the curtain, offering an unprecedented look at the meticulous and multi-faceted campaign known as "inside Iran's influence operation." This is not merely a theoretical exercise; it is a calculated, quiet war fought in the shadows of academia, media, and digital spaces, with profound implications for global security and stability.** **The detailed exposure of these covert activities paints a compelling picture of a nation strategically working to bolster its image, especially concerning its controversial nuclear program, and to maintain its regime's power both domestically and abroad. From cultivating relationships with influential overseas academics to leveraging digital platforms for psychological warfare, Iran's influence operations represent a sophisticated, ongoing challenge that demands close scrutiny. Understanding the mechanisms, the key players, and the broader context of these operations is crucial for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of modern international relations.**
## Table of Contents 1. [The Genesis of Influence: The Iran Experts Initiative](#the-genesis-of-influence-the-iran-experts-initiative) * [Bolstering Tehran's Image: A Strategic Imperative](#bolstering-tehrans-image-a-strategic-imperative) 2. [Unveiling the Network: Digital Evidence and Key Players](#unveiling-the-network-digital-evidence-and-key-players) * [The Kaveh Afrasiabi Case: A Glimpse into Covert Operations](#the-kaveh-afrasiabi-case-a-glimpse-into-covert-operations) 3. [Beyond Academia: Broader Influence Campaigns](#beyond-academia-broader-influence-campaigns) * [Social Media as a Battlefield: Foiling Digital Deception](#social-media-as-a-battlefield-foiling-digital-deception) 4. [The Geopolitical Chessboard: Iran's Influence Amidst Regional Tensions](#the-geopolitical-chessboard-irans-influence-amidst-regional-tensions) 5. [Countering the Narrative: US and Israeli Responses](#countering-the-narrative-us-and-israeli-responses) * [Israel's Covert War: Deep Inside Iran](#israels-covert-war-deep-inside-iran) 6. [The Stakes: Why Iran's Influence Operations Matter](#the-stakes-why-irans-influence-operations-matter) 7. [Congressional Briefings and Policy Implications](#congressional-briefings-and-policy-implications) 8. [Navigating the Future: Addressing Iran's Enduring Influence](#navigating-the-future-addressing-irans-enduring-influence)
## The Genesis of Influence: The Iran Experts Initiative The story of "inside Iran's influence operation" truly begins in the spring of 2014. At this pivotal time, as global scrutiny intensified around its nuclear ambitions, senior Iranian Foreign Ministry officials embarked on a discreet but highly strategic endeavor. Their objective was clear: to proactively shape international discourse and bolster Tehran’s image, particularly concerning its nuclear program and broader global security issues. This initiative, later dubbed the "Iran Experts Initiative," sought to achieve its goals by cultivating ties with a carefully selected network of influential overseas academics and researchers. The revelation of this program underscores a sophisticated understanding by Tehran of the power of "soft war" – the ability to influence through persuasion and cultural attraction rather than military might. By engaging with reputable scholars and experts, Iran aimed to subtly disseminate its narratives, counter negative perceptions, and present a more favorable image on the global stage. This was not about overt propaganda, but about fostering an environment where Iranian perspectives could gain traction within respected academic and policy circles. The meticulous planning and quiet execution of this initiative highlight Iran's long-term vision for its foreign policy and its recognition of the importance of intellectual influence. ### Bolstering Tehran's Image: A Strategic Imperative The timing of the Iran Experts Initiative was no coincidence. In 2014, negotiations for what would become the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or the Iran nuclear deal, were well underway. Iran faced immense international pressure and skepticism regarding its nuclear activities. Against this backdrop, the Foreign Ministry's quiet effort to build ties with academics served as a strategic imperative. The goal was to cultivate a network that could, wittingly or unwittingly, act as conduits for Tehran's preferred narratives, especially regarding the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and its role in regional stability. The strategy aimed to influence policy discussions from the ground up, by shaping the research and opinions of those who often advise governments and inform public debate. This form of influence operation is particularly insidious because it often operates under the guise of legitimate academic exchange, making it harder to detect and counter. The success of such an initiative relies on the credibility of the experts involved, lending an air of authenticity to the messages being conveyed. It reflects a sophisticated understanding of how policy is made and how public perception is molded in Western democracies. ## Unveiling the Network: Digital Evidence and Key Players The existence and intricate details of "inside Iran's influence operation" came to light through a groundbreaking exposé. Veteran Wall Street Journal reporter Jay Solomon, in collaboration with Iran International, obtained a cache of Iranian regime emails. These digital communications provided extensive, undeniable evidence, revealing the inner workings of what Iran International termed "Tehran's Soft War" and Solomon's report for Semafor, aptly titled "Inside Iran's Influence Operation," complemented and magnified this critical investigation. The emails laid bare the operational specifics of the "Iran Experts Network," demonstrating how its members were expected to act in ways that served Tehran's strategic interests. This digital evidence was the "smoking gun," transforming long-held suspicions into concrete facts. It detailed the coordination, the objectives, and the individuals involved, offering an unprecedented look into the sophisticated machinery of Iran's covert influence abroad. The transparency provided by these leaked emails is invaluable for understanding the true scope and nature of Iran's foreign policy tools beyond traditional diplomacy. ### The Kaveh Afrasiabi Case: A Glimpse into Covert Operations Among the most striking revelations that shed light on the operational realities of "inside Iran's influence operation" was the case of Kaveh Afrasiabi. An Iranian academic and permanent U.S. resident, Afrasiabi had long been a familiar figure to journalists and researchers, often contacting them with his insights on Tehran’s nuclear program. His arrest in a Boston suburb in 2021, however, unveiled a far more sinister truth: he was allegedly working as an unregistered agent for the Iranian regime. Afrasiabi's case serves as a stark example of how individuals, often operating under the guise of independent scholarship or expert analysis, can become instruments of a foreign government's influence campaign. His alleged activities highlight the clandestine nature of these operations, where seemingly legitimate academic engagement can mask a deeper, more manipulative agenda. Such instances underscore the critical need for vigilance and transparency in academic and policy circles, especially when dealing with individuals who may have undeclared affiliations with foreign state actors. The Kaveh Afrasiabi case is a tangible manifestation of the "Iran Experts Initiative" in action, demonstrating the real-world implications of these covert efforts. ## Beyond Academia: Broader Influence Campaigns While the "Iran Experts Initiative" focused on cultivating academic ties, "inside Iran's influence operation" extends far beyond scholarly circles. Tehran employs a multi-pronged approach that includes sophisticated psychological warfare operations and the manipulation of digital platforms to shape public opinion and sow discord. These broader campaigns often target not just foreign governments but also the general populace, aiming to influence perceptions and behaviors on a mass scale. One significant aspect of this wider influence strategy involves state-affiliated media. The Iranian regime leverages entities like the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) to produce and disseminate propaganda content. This content is not limited to audiences inside Iran; it is carefully crafted and broadcast globally, often through seemingly independent channels or social media accounts, to promote Iran's narratives and discredit its adversaries. The reach of these media operations is vast, making them a powerful tool in Iran's arsenal of influence. ### Social Media as a Battlefield: Foiling Digital Deception The digital realm, particularly social media, has emerged as a crucial battleground for "inside Iran's influence operation." Platforms like Facebook have been exploited by Iranian actors to conduct political influence campaigns, often mimicking the tactics seen from other state actors like Russia. These operations involve creating networks of fake accounts, pages, and groups to spread disinformation, amplify specific narratives, and target specific demographics. Examples include the use of "liberal memes" to target Americans on Facebook, aiming to exploit existing societal divisions and influence political discourse. Such tactics are designed to be subtle, often blending in with authentic content, making them difficult for the average user to detect. Fortunately, major social media companies have become more adept at identifying and foiling these political influence campaigns. Facebook, for instance, has publicly disclosed instances where it has taken down networks originating in Iran and Russia, demonstrating the ongoing struggle between state-sponsored digital deception and platform integrity. This constant cat-and-mouse game highlights the evolving nature of influence operations in the digital age. ## The Geopolitical Chessboard: Iran's Influence Amidst Regional Tensions Iran's influence operations are not isolated incidents; they are integral components of its broader geopolitical strategy, especially within the volatile Middle East. The revelations about "inside Iran's influence operation" underscore Tehran's relentless pursuit of regional dominance and its efforts to navigate complex international relations, particularly concerning its nuclear program. The Middle East remains a hotbed of tensions, and Iran's activities, whether overt or covert, significantly contribute to the region's instability. The nuclear deal, while a landmark agreement, did not diminish Iran's resolve to project power. Instead, it seems to have spurred a more nuanced approach, focusing on soft power and psychological warfare alongside its conventional military and proxy strategies. Iran understands that shaping global perceptions and influencing policy centers abroad can yield strategic advantages that military force alone cannot. This holistic approach, encompassing both hard and soft power, positions Iran as a formidable player on the world stage, constantly seeking to expand its sphere of influence and challenge the existing order. The ongoing nature of these operations reflects Iran's long-term vision for its role in the world. ## Countering the Narrative: US and Israeli Responses The revelations surrounding "inside Iran's influence operation" have not gone unnoticed by its primary adversaries, particularly the United States and Israel. Both nations have been actively working to counter Iran's multifaceted influence campaigns, employing a range of strategies from diplomatic pressure and sanctions to covert operations. The understanding that Iran is engaged in a "psychological warfare operation" has prompted a robust response from these countries. For the U.S., a key aspect of countering Iran's foreign influence campaigns involves economic measures. The Treasury Department has been urged to impose sanctions on propaganda content creators affiliated with the IRIB, regardless of whether they operate inside Iran or abroad. This approach aims to disrupt the financial networks that support Iran's media apparatus and limit its ability to disseminate state-sponsored narratives. Such sanctions are designed to be a deterrent, making it more difficult and costly for Iran to execute its influence agenda. ### Israel's Covert War: Deep Inside Iran Perhaps no nation has taken a more direct and often clandestine approach to countering "inside Iran's influence operation" and its broader strategic threats than Israel. Often referred to as "Israel's secret war in Iran," this shadow conflict involves sophisticated intelligence gathering, sabotage, and targeted operations designed to degrade Iran's capabilities and disrupt its strategic programs. The recent "Rising Lion" airstrikes, which reportedly damaged Iran’s missile infrastructure and air defenses, serve as a stark reminder of this ongoing covert war. Reports indicate that Israeli spies have "infiltrated the heart of Iran" to facilitate such operations. Mossad commandos, hidden drones, and a "huge number of people—a mass of agents deep inside Iran" are said to be involved in this high-stakes game. In the early hours of a Friday, Israel launched one of the most sweeping and sophisticated military operations in its history – a coordinated assault that reached deep into the heart of Iran. This level of infiltration and operational capability underscores the seriousness with which Israel views the threat posed by Iran, not just from its nuclear program but also from its broader regional influence and psychological warfare tactics. These actions are a clear message that Iran's covert operations will be met with equally determined and often covert countermeasures. ## The Stakes: Why Iran's Influence Operations Matter Understanding "inside Iran's influence operation" is not merely an academic exercise; it carries profound implications, particularly when viewed through the lens of YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) principles. These operations directly impact national security, foreign policy, and the integrity of democratic processes, thereby affecting the fundamental well-being and safety of citizens globally. When foreign actors subtly manipulate information and public opinion, it can lead to misinformed policy decisions, erode public trust in institutions, and even incite social unrest. The stakes are incredibly high. If Iran successfully shapes narratives around its nuclear program, it could influence international sanctions regimes, arms control agreements, and regional security alliances. If it can exploit societal divisions through psychological warfare, it could destabilize nations and undermine democratic resilience. These are not abstract threats; they are tangible risks that can directly impact economic stability, personal freedoms, and even the likelihood of conflict. Recognizing the insidious nature of these influence operations is the first step towards building robust defenses against them and safeguarding the principles of transparency and self-determination. The ongoing Iranian cyberattacks and influence operations, likely focused on retaliating against foreign cyberattacks and perceived incitement of protests inside Iran, further underscore the immediate and tangible threat they pose. ## Congressional Briefings and Policy Implications The gravity of "inside Iran's influence operation" has escalated to the highest levels of government, prompting direct engagement from policymakers. On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, a significant congressional briefing was held on Capitol Hill. The focus of this briefing was to discuss Iran’s covert influence operations abroad, including within the United States, and critically, inside Iran itself. The primary objective of these internal operations is to maintain the regime in power, highlighting the dual nature of Iran's influence efforts: projecting power externally while solidifying control internally. Such briefings are crucial for informing legislative action and shaping foreign policy responses. They bring together intelligence community findings, expert analysis, and political will to formulate strategies for countering these threats. The discussion on Capitol Hill signifies that the U.S. government views Iran's influence campaigns not as minor irritants, but as serious national security challenges that require a coordinated and comprehensive response. The insights gleaned from these discussions will undoubtedly influence future sanctions, diplomatic initiatives, and intelligence operations aimed at disrupting Tehran's ability to manipulate global and domestic narratives. ## Navigating the Future: Addressing Iran's Enduring Influence The comprehensive exposure of "inside Iran's influence operation" by Jay Solomon at Semafor on September 26, 2023, and the preceding Iran International exposé, "Inside Tehran’s Soft War," have provided invaluable insights into a complex and enduring challenge. These reports, based on leaked emails and meticulous investigation, have taken "the bull by its horns" by providing digital evidence of the "Iran Experts Network" and other facets of Tehran's soft war. As we look to the future, addressing Iran's enduring influence will require a multi-faceted and adaptive strategy. This includes: * **Enhanced Intelligence and Counter-Intelligence:** Continuously monitoring and exposing covert influence networks, akin to the work done by Jay Solomon and Iran International, is paramount. * **Strengthening Digital Defenses:** Collaborating with social media platforms and cybersecurity experts to identify and neutralize state-sponsored disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks. * **Strategic Communications:** Developing proactive narratives that counter Iranian propaganda and accurately inform global audiences about Tehran's true intentions and actions. * **Targeted Sanctions:** Imposing financial penalties on individuals and entities involved in propaganda and influence operations, particularly those affiliated with state-controlled media like IRIB. * **Promoting Transparency:** Encouraging greater transparency in academic and policy research, particularly regarding funding and affiliations, to prevent the unwitting or deliberate co-option of experts. * **International Cooperation:** Fostering alliances with like-minded nations to share intelligence and coordinate responses to Iran's global influence efforts. The battle against "inside Iran's influence operation" is an ongoing one, fought not with tanks and missiles, but with information, perception, and digital tools. It demands constant vigilance, strategic foresight, and a collective commitment to upholding truth and transparency in the global information space.
**The detailed revelations about "inside Iran's influence operation" offer a stark reminder of the evolving nature of geopolitical conflict. From the subtle cultivation of academic ties in 2014 to the widespread use of digital platforms for psychological warfare, Iran has demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of how to project power and shape narratives without firing a single shot. The ongoing efforts by the U.S. and Israel to counter these operations underscore the serious threat they pose to national security and global stability.** **Understanding these intricate influence campaigns is not just for policymakers; it's vital for every informed citizen. By recognizing the tactics, the players, and the ultimate objectives behind "Tehran's soft war," we can better protect ourselves from manipulation and advocate for policies that truly serve the interests of peace and security. What are your thoughts on the revelations about Iran's influence operations? How do you think nations can best counter these subtle yet powerful forms of warfare? Share your insights in the comments below, and consider exploring other articles on our site that delve into the complexities of modern geopolitical challenges.**