Investigative Report: Iranian Proxy Influence in Afghan Communities Across the United States

By Naweed Yousufi, CEO, Kauser News Agency and Mateen H Journalist of Kauser News Agency

In an alarming nine-week investigation, Kauser News Agency has uncovered evidence suggesting the presence of Iranian intelligence-linked Afghan sleeper cells operating across the United States. These cells appear to be embedded within Afghan communities in all 52 states and have been reportedly mobilized to sow discord and potentially incite violence. Particularly concerning activities have been identified in California, Texas, Washington State, Virginia, and Oklahoma.

The investigation reveals that members of these sleeper cells entered the United States under the guise of Afghan refugees, Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, or evacuees. Utilizing these legitimate immigration pathways, these operatives have assumed roles as community leaders and advocates, gaining the trust of local Afghan populations. By leveraging these positions, they have strategically influenced public opinion and advanced Iran’s geopolitical agenda within the Afghan diaspora.

A key tactic employed by these Iranian-linked operatives involves psychological operations (psyops) aimed at exploiting existing tensions within Afghan communities. The cells reportedly initiate discussions and campaigns around sensitive topics such as:

• Ethnic divisions, particularly between Tajiks and Pashtuns.
• Religious differences between Sunni and Shia Muslims.
• Allegations of systemic racism and discrimination.

These divisive strategies are designed to destabilize Afghan communities, weaken their collective influence, and create an environment conducive to further Iranian intervention.

Further investigation revealed attempts by these sleeper cells to build relationships with U.S. political leaders, members of Congress, and state-level officials. By presenting themselves as legitimate community representatives, they aim to:

1. Protect their operational cover.
2. Secure platforms for advancing narratives favorable to Iran.
3. Influence U.S. policies in ways that benefit Iranian interests.

This infiltration into political circles underscores the sophisticated nature of their operations and their potential to undermine U.S. domestic stability and foreign policy objectives.

The presence of Iranian-linked sleeper cells within Afghan communities poses a significant threat to national security. These operatives not only disrupt community cohesion but also risk creating avenues for external interference in U.S. affairs. Their activities could potentially lead to:

• Increased tensions and violence within Afghan communities.
• Escalation of broader societal divisions.
• Compromised trust between Afghan refugees and the broader U.S. society.

Given these findings, it is imperative for federal and state authorities to:

1. Conduct thorough investigations into individuals and organizations suspected of links to Iranian intelligence.
2. Enhance vetting processes for Afghan refugees and SIV applicants to identify potential risks.
3. Foster stronger community engagement to build resilience against divisive narratives.
4. Monitor and counter online campaigns that exploit ethnic and religious tensions.

The Afghan diaspora in the United States is a vital and vibrant community, contributing significantly to American society. Protecting this community from exploitation by foreign entities is crucial to ensuring its stability and integration.

The Kauser News Agency will continue to monitor and report on this developing issue. Our commitment to investigative journalism remains steadfast, as we aim to provide actionable insights into threats facing our communities and nation. Transparency and vigilance are our strongest tools in addressing this complex challenge.