FBI Seeks Information on Iranian Officials in Levinson Disappearance Case

February 5, 2025 by No Comments

On Tuesday, the FBI issued posters seeking information about two Iranian intelligence officers allegedly involved in the disappearance of Robert Levinson, a retired FBI Special Agent. The agency reiterated its commitment to holding accountable all Iranian officials implicated in his abduction.

Levinson, working as a private investigator, vanished in 2007 on Kish Island, Iran, reportedly during an unauthorized CIA operation.

“Even after nearly 18 years, we will not give up. We demand answers,” Levinson’s family stated. “Someone knows something, and we insist those responsible are held accountable. We thank the FBI for its dedication to justice and its continued efforts to uncover the truth.”

The FBI identified the officers in the posters as Mohammed Baseri and Ahmad Khazai, alleging they acted as officials of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) during Levinson’s abduction, detention, and presumed death.

“The FBI remains dedicated to returning Bob to his family,” said Sanjay Virmani, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Counterterrorism Division. “Our ongoing investigation continues to uncover new leads, and we will use all available means to hold every Iranian official involved in his abduction accountable.”

The FBI further stated that for nearly 18 years, the Iranian government has denied knowledge of Levinson’s whereabouts, despite evidence suggesting senior intelligence officials authorized his abduction and detention and engaged in a disinformation campaign.

The Treasury Department sanctioned both officers in December 2020.

“Baseri has been involved in counterespionage activities inside and outside Iran and sensitive investigations related to Iranian national security,” the FBI explained. “He has collaborated with intelligence officials from other countries to harm U.S. interests. Khazai has led MOIS delegations to other countries to assess security situations.”

A $5 million reward remains available for information leading to Levinson’s location, recovery, and return.