In the wake of Iran's ongoing war, which escalated in late February and led to the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the country faces an unprecedented existential test under the leadership of his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei. This political upheaval has intensified what is referred to as the wounds of the military establishment, which has seen the loss of prominent historical leaders, including Hossein Salam, Mohamad Bagheri, and very recently, the newly appointed commander of the Revolutionary Guard, Mohammad Pakpour, and the head of intelligence within the emergency command, Salah Asadi.

This complex scenario has reignited fundamental questions about why Iran possesses two armies: the regular army and the Revolutionary Guard. The article delves into the historical background of this dual military system, highlighting how it was designed to prevent the concentration of military power within a single entity while ensuring the regime's longevity and resilience against external threats. It raises queries about which military body holds the upper hand and the keys to deterrence in the current conflict.

Overall, the discussion around Iran's dual military structure reflects deeper implications for its domestic stability and foreign policy, particularly as the country navigates through leadership transitions and military challenges. The dual structure might serve as a means to distribute power and maintain a tight grip on authority amid tumultuous circumstances, ensuring that no singular military force can dominate the security landscape.