Empire of Terror

Empire of Terror examines the growing existential threat posed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to Western security and to the remaining Sunni and non-Muslim civilizations in the Middle East. This strategic and political drama of our day captures the essence of this threat.

Drawing from 35 years of experience as an analyst in the U.S. Defense Intelligence Community, the author offers insights that update current academic literature. The book blends rigorous academic scholarship with an engaging writing style, appealing to both college students and professors.

The author uses case studies of the intelligence and security services from two 20th century totalitarian systems—the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany—for comparative analysis. Unlike many other books on the Guards, Empire of Terror is distinct and enduring in its approach.

The book features profiles that highlight the human drama and the sufferings of women and gays in Iran. By focusing on the Guards and their role in maintaining Iran's revolution, Empire of Terror provides biographies and explanations of the ideologies driving some of its leaders, exposing both the human and inhumane elements in this distinctly Iranian drama with global implications.

Empire of Terror draws historical parallels to the Soviet Union and the Third Reich, comparing the intelligence and security services of states with totalitarian aspirations. It illustrates ideological intersections such as a collectivist mindset, intolerance for political deviation, strongly defined sex roles, hyper-masculinity, and a ruthless determination to destroy enemies.

In many respects, Iran's people, politics, and culture remain unique. This book explores these intricacies through the lens of geopolitical and historical analysis.

Author: Mark D. Silinsky, a 37-year veteran analyst of the Department of Defense, an adjunct professor at the United States Army War College, and an affiliated professor at Haifa University.

Features: 2 maps, 2 charts, 18 tables.