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In the media: Thomas Renard on Iranian Use of “Outsourced” Actors

March 13, 2026

On March 11, AFP published an article, in which the French media outlet discussed the potential risk of a new wave of terrorist attacks in Europe linked to Iran’s response to U.S.-Israeli actions. The article includes an interview with Thomas Renard, Director of ICCT. 

In the interview, Renard emphasised that Iran depends on local operatives, criminal networks, militias, and terrorist groups—including Hamas and Hezbollah—to conduct operations in Europe. “Iran is the main sponsor of these organisations, even if they may have objectives distinct from Tehran’s.” He added: "Less likely but very serious would be the activation of Iranian agents already infiltrated in Europe. Exposing one’s agents is generally a last-resort solution.”

Read the full article (in French) here: 

L'Europe va-t-elle connaître une nouvelle vague d'attentats?