Inside the Recruitment Process of Iranian SAVAK in 1978

The Iranian intelligence agency, SAVAK (Sazeman-e Ettela'at va Amniyat-e Keshvar), played a pivotal role in maintaining the Shah's regime in Iran until its dissolution after the Iranian Revolution in 1979. The recruitment process of SAVAK in 1978 was a complex and secretive affair. In this article, we delve into the clandestine world of SAVAK's recruitment methods during a tumultuous period in Iran's history.

Secrecy and Discretion:

Recruitment into SAVAK was characterized by an extreme level of secrecy and discretion. Prospective agents were identified based on their loyalty to the Shah and their willingness to carry out covert operations to suppress political dissent.

Personal Networks:

Many recruits were introduced to SAVAK through personal connections. The agency relied heavily on familial and social networks to identify individuals who could be trusted with sensitive tasks. Loyalty to the Shah's regime was a primary consideration.

Background Checks:

Once a potential candidate was identified, an extensive background check was conducted. This involved investigating the candidate's personal and political affiliations, financial records, and any potential ties to opposition groups.

Psychological Assessments:

Candidates underwent psychological assessments to evaluate their mental resilience and suitability for intelligence work. The ability to withstand the stress and ethical dilemmas associated with espionage was crucial.

Training:

Recruits who passed the initial screening were subjected to rigorous training programs. These programs included intelligence gathering techniques, counterintelligence, surveillance, and interrogation methods. Training often took place at specialized facilities.

Covert Assignments:

Upon completing their training, recruits were assigned to various covert roles within SAVAK. These roles ranged from intelligence gathering and espionage to monitoring dissident groups and individuals.

Ideological Alignment:

Ideological alignment with the Shah's regime was a non-negotiable requirement for SAVAK recruits. Agents were expected to uphold the principles and values of the monarchy and suppress any opposition.

Oaths of Loyalty:

Recruits typically swore oaths of loyalty to the Shah and the regime. These oaths emphasized absolute devotion to the state and the willingness to carry out any orders, regardless of ethical considerations.

Monitoring and Surveillance:

Even after recruitment, agents were closely monitored by their superiors to ensure their loyalty and prevent potential defections. SAVAK was notorious for its internal surveillance to counter any subversive activities.

Consequences of Exposure:

The consequences of being exposed as a SAVAK agent were severe. Exposure could lead to imprisonment, torture, or execution, as many Iranians considered SAVAK agents to be instruments of repression.

Conclusion:

The recruitment process of Iranian SAVAK in 1978 was a secretive and highly selective endeavor. Loyalty to the Shah's regime and a willingness to carry out covert operations were paramount. SAVAK's recruitment methods reflected the political climate of Iran at the time, marked by suppression of dissent and political opposition. The agency's dissolution in the wake of the Iranian Revolution marked the end of an era in Iran's intelligence history.