The Quds Force is a branch of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that manages foreign operations. It is reported to coordinate with and support regional groups, though specific details regarding the extent of its direct command over these forces may vary depending on the source.

Iran’s Quds Force, a component of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, maintains a network of allied armed groups across the Middle East that analysts often describe as a force-multiplication architecture. While Tehran refers to these alliances as the "Axis of Resistance," the extent of Iran’s direct operational control over these non-state actors varies by group and context.

Characterizations of this network as the "most sophisticated state-sponsored terrorist network" reflect specific security assessments rather than universally established facts.

In early July 2026, Houthi fighters reported sinking two commercial bulk carriers in the Red Sea, an action that further disrupted maritime traffic. Analysts suggest this incident may signal emerging constraints on Iran’s long-standing strategy of leveraging regional proxy networks.

Iran uses a flexible proxy network to project power while avoiding direct conflict, prioritizing operational effectiveness and loyalty over strict ideological alignment. Despite pressure that has weakened major groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis, the network is adapting through decentralization and remains resilient rather than in decline.

Proxy activity is expanding into Europe, with ...