What is meant by Iran having no proxy forces?
By Ali Kakadezfuli
Managing director
A proxy force refers to a group or organization that conducts military, political, or propaganda operations on behalf of a more influential nation or political actor, either directly or indirectly. Such entities typically receive financial, military, intelligence, or political assistance from their patron and work to further objectives aligned with the patron’s strategic interests. Patron states often utilize proxy forces to achieve their goals without becoming directly involved in conflicts or bearing responsibility for the actions of their proxies.
While Iran extends support to groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), Ansarallah in Yemen (commonly known as the Houthis), Kata’ib Hezbollah, and Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq in Iraq, it cannot be asserted that these groups function as Iranian proxies. The distinctions underlying this assertion are explored in detail in this editorial.
Distinctive national priorities and independent objectives
Hezbollah and Hamas pursue objectives rooted in their respective local and national priorities. Hezbollah’s core mission is to defend Lebanon against Israeli aggression and protect the interests of the Shia community within Lebanon. Similarly, Hamas is dedicated to resisting Israeli occupation and advocating for Palestinian rights.
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