Mapping the Iran Threat Network

The Iranian External Operations Map and Timeline is the largest unclassified and complimentary information source on the Islamic Republic’s efforts to carry out assassinations, abductions, kidnappings, surveillance activities, and intimidation plots worldwide. The tool is indispensable for all those seeking to understand the regime’s illicit activities, the IRGC’s many roles, and efforts near and far to silence criticism of the regime.
In this video, project creator Dr. Matthew Levitt, The Washington Institute’s Fromer-Wexler Fellow, discusses the origin story of this extraordinary interactive tool, the data behind it, and potential applications.
The information displays geographically and chronologically alongside photos and videos, geographic and thematic linkages between entries, as well as supporting materials including primary-source documents, declassified government documents, court documents, and research reports. Users will be able to filter plots by operational type (e.g., assassination, kidnapping), target (e.g., Iranian dissident, government official), perpetrator (e.g., criminals, IRGC, proxy groups), and country. By combining filters, users can gain a nuanced understanding of Iran’s targets, the operatives involved, and the locations where operations occurred.
The map, around 400+ entries, is designed for intelligence analysts, law enforcement, policymakers, journalists, academics, and students. It will be updated continuously as new plots take place and details about historical events are declassified.