Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has emerged from the 12-day military confrontation with Israel in June with increased power and readiness, despite suffering damage to its air defenses and infiltration by Israeli intelligence. The conflict was described as the most damaging in the IRGC’s history, yet the organization remains critical to the survival of the Islamic Republic. Iranian military officials, including General Fadavi, have stated that the IRGC’s strength and readiness have grown continuously since its founding and have notably improved compared to two months prior to the conflict. The IRGC’s role has expanded beyond military functions to include growing influence in Iran’s economy. Meanwhile, Iran’s air force was exposed as weak during the war, prompting speculation about Tehran potentially seeking advanced jets from China amid ongoing regional tensions. Analysts highlight that despite the IRGC’s resilience, Iran faces internal challenges, including a fraying social contract and economic crisis, which cannot be resolved by patriotism alone. The IRGC has also issued a strong challenge to the US and Israel as tensions escalate in the region.