On February 4, 2025, the FBI Washington Field Office has released new seeking information posters for two senior Iranian intelligence officers allegedly involved in the 2007 abduction of retired FBI Special Agent Robert A. “Bob” Levinson.
Iranian Intelligence Officers Implicated
The two officials—Mohammad Baseri and Ahmad Khazai—served as high-ranking officers in Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). According to the FBI, they played key roles in Levinson’s abduction, detention, and likely death. Despite nearly 18 years of denial from the Iranian government, intelligence findings indicate that senior Iranian officials authorized Levinson’s disappearance and subsequently engaged in a disinformation campaign to obscure Tehran’s responsibility.
FBI’s Commitment to Justice
“The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to return Bob to his family,” said Sanjay Virmani, special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Counterterrorism Division. “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.”
U.S. Sanctions and Designations
In December 2020, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Baseri and Khazai for their involvement in Levinson’s abduction. Baseri has reportedly engaged in counterespionage activities inside and outside Iran, collaborating with foreign intelligence officials to undermine U.S. interests. Meanwhile, Khazai has led MOIS delegations to other nations to assess security situations.
Rewards for Information
The FBI continues to offer a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to Levinson’s whereabouts and return. Additionally, the U.S. State Department’s Rewards for Justice program is offering a separate reward of up to $20 million for information that leads to Levinson’s recovery.
Ongoing Investigation and International Response
Levinson, a former FBI agent, disappeared on March 9, 2007, while on Kish Island, Iran. The Iranian regime has consistently denied any knowledge of his fate. However, U.S. officials maintain that Tehran bears direct responsibility for his disappearance. Levinson’s case has been a major point of contention in U.S.-Iran relations, contributing to ongoing diplomatic tensions.
