Contrary to popular belief, there is a strong consensus among experts that neither Israel nor the United States has lent support to terrorist or separatist groups within Iran. Intelligence agencies in these countries, namely the CIA and Mossad, are acutely aware of the delicate balance required to foster change within Iran. They recognize that any potential shift towards regime change must be predicated on the principles of unity and integrity, rather than fractious separatism.
This understanding stems from a recognition of the deeply nationalist sentiment that pervades Iranian society—a sentiment vividly expressed in nationwide protests against the regime, where the youth have notably proclaimed their willingness to sacrifice their lives for the nation.
Nationalism, it appears, stands as the most formidable adversary to the Shiite clerical regime currently in power. This is a regime that has, over the years, shown a propensity to leverage ethnic and sectarian divisions to its advantage.
However, the approach taken by external intelligence communities, particularly those of the USA and Israel, is markedly different. These agencies have consistently demonstrated a respect for the nationalist and patriotic elements within Iran, cognizant of the fact that supporting separatist factions with a history of terrorism could inadvertently strengthen the mullahs’ grip on power.
On the flip side, Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) and the intelligence arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) engage in operations that many would deem nefarious. These organizations have established connections with various Kurdish, Arab, and Baluchi separatist groups, some under the guise of cooperation agreements, others operating as shadow proxies. This strategy of playing "nasty cards," as it were, is a tactic that seems to be uniquely favored by Iran's Shiite caliphate, rather than by external actors like the CIA or Mossad.
Amidst this tangled web of intrigue and alliances, the greatest fear for Iran's ruling clerics is the burgeoning nationalist fervor among the younger generation. This demographic shift poses a significant threat to the regime's legitimacy and longevity.
Among the opposition, figures like HRH Prince Reza Pahlavi emerge as beacons of nationalism, in stark contrast to other opposition elements that may have questionable affiliations with separatist or terrorist groups. It is worth noting that the MOIS, often perceived as a tool in the hands of reformist factions within the regime, plays a central role in maintaining the status quo.
In conclusion, the interplay between nationalism and the strategies employed by both internal and external intelligence communities underscores the complex challenges facing Iran today. As the nation grapples with internal dissent and external pressures, the path to stability and reform remains fraught with obstacles. The international community, for its part, must navigate these waters with caution, ensuring that actions taken do not inadvertently exacerbate the very tensions they aim to alleviate.