The IRGC dominates Iran's economy, acting as a parallel power center since the 1979 revolution. Its influence grew during the Iran-Iraq war, and it now plays a significant role amid ongoing protests against currency devaluation and rising prices. The government blames global sanctions for the economic crisis, but protesters attribute it to leadership failures. Sanctions have severely impacted oil revenues and economic growth, leading to increased poverty. The IRGC has established a dual economy, benefiting from state contracts and a 'resistance economy' model, while the general population suffers from inflation and currency instability.