The FBI has recently released 'seeking information posters' for two Iranian intelligence officers suspected of involvement in the disappearance of former FBI agent Robert Levinson. The US government has identified and sanctioned Mohammad Baseri and Ahmad Khazai in connection with Levinson's disappearance, which occurred in Iran in March 2007. This latest announcement underscores the US authorities' renewed commitment to resolving the case.
According to the FBI, Baseri and Khazai, who held positions in Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security, played roles in Levinson's abduction, detention, and likely death. The bureau has reiterated a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to Levinson's location, recovery, and return, while the State Department is offering a reward of up to $20 million for similar information.
Sanjay Virmani, special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Counterterrorism Division, stated, 'Our extensive investigation continues to develop new leads and intelligence, and we will pursue all options to hold every Iranian official involved in his abduction accountable.'
In 2020, Levinson's family announced their belief that he had passed away based on information received from US officials prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. Levinson had traveled to Kish Island, Iran, in early March 2007 and subsequently disappeared without any public sightings or communication.
While Iranian officials had previously denied Levinson's presence in the country, claiming a lack of evidence, a United Nations working group disclosed in November 2019 that Iran's Justice Department had acknowledged an ongoing case related to Levinson in the Public Prosecution and Revolutionary Court of Tehran.
