The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has shown no signs of backing down despite a stern “surrender or die” ultimatum from U.S. President Donald Trump following large-scale American and Israeli strikes on Iran. Instead of splintering, Iran’s elite force has projected unity and defiance, launching coordinated missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets and U.S.-aligned states across the region. Formed after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the IRGC operates as a parallel military structure alongside Iran’s regular armed forces but answers directly to the Supreme Leader. With the reported killing of Ali Khamenei, analysts say the corps could consolidate even greater influence over Iran’s political, military and economic systems rather than weaken under pressure. The IRGC oversees ground, naval and aerospace units, controls Iran’s ballistic missile programme and safeguards sensitive nuclear infrastructure. It also commands the Basij paramilitary for internal security and the Quds Force for external operations and proxy warfare across the Middle East. Beyond its military role, the corps wields vast economic power through networks tied to infrastructure, energy and strategic industries.