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Over the past five years, Iran’s activity in the arena of international terrorism has significantly intensified, spreading across vast geographic regions and incorporating criminal organizations in the execution of terrorist operations. Although most Iranian terrorism attempts have been thwarted, there is no guarantee that this success will persist in the future. It is therefore necessary to examine the characteristics of Iran’s use of terrorism in order to improve the chances of countering it. This memorandum examines Iran’s policy regarding its use of terrorism in the international arena over the past five years, the trends that have characterized it, and its modes of operation-placing these elements within the broader historical context of Iran’s employment of terrorism. An analysis of Iran’s terrorism policy reveals a troubling trend, illustrating that Iran remains committed to employing international terrorism and is even amplifying its efforts in this regard, demonstrating a willingness to risk friction with numerous states in order to pursue its policy. This trend requires close attention, both in its own right and because it signals Iran’s growing audacity and confidence in violating international norms and the sovereignty of states-behaviors that may also manifest in other contexts.

In light of the delayed Iranian response to the assassination of Haniyeh, it is possible that Iran is planning to exact a price from Israel in the international arena. How should we prepare for the challenge?

Read the INSS Strategic Analysis for 2023