Throughout its tumultuous history, Iran has strategically employed terrorist groups as proxies in its foreign policy, using these groups to wield influence across the Middle East and beyond.
From its longtime financial support of Hezbollah in Lebanon to its backing of militias in Iraq and Yemen, Iran's utilization of proxy groups has presented a complex challenge for global security.
The current conflicts in the Middle East involving Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis all demonstrate the control that Iran exerts over conflicts in the region—without ever becoming officially involved in the conflicts.
Iran has been officially designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism by the US since 1984.
Countries can be designated State Sponsors of Terrorism by the US State Department. Right now, there are only four countries on the list: Cuba, North Korea, Syria, and Iran.