Taghi Daneshvar Sought for Questioning in Robert Levinson Disappearance

May 10

Iranian Intelligence Official

Taghi Daneshvar, an official of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS), is wanted for questioning based on his alleged involvement in the disappearance of retired FBI Special Agent Robert A. Levinson. Daneshvar is alleged to have been involved in Levinson’s abduction, detention, and probable death, as well as Iran’s alleged efforts to conceal responsibility for what occurred. The FBI continues investigating the case and working to identify additional Iranian officials believed to have been involved.

Disappearance on Kish Island

Robert Levinson traveled to Kish Island, Iran, on March 8, 2007, and disappeared the following day. He has not been publicly seen or heard from since March 9, 2007, beginning an international investigation into his whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. The case has remained under investigation for nearly two decades as U.S. authorities continue working to determine the full extent of Iranian involvement.

Evidence of Captivity

Several years after Levinson disappeared, evidence emerged demonstrating that he had remained alive in captivity for at least some period following his disappearance. A video and photographs obtained in 2010 and 2011 showed Levinson being held captive. The material became critical evidence in the investigation and intensified efforts to identify the individuals responsible for his abduction and detention.

The evidence also raised additional questions concerning where Levinson had been held and who controlled his detention. Investigators continued examining Iranian intelligence officials and others who may have participated in or possessed information about the operation. Daneshvar is among the officials now wanted for questioning in connection with those events.

Daneshvar's Alleged Role

Daneshvar is alleged to have been involved in Levinson’s abduction, detention, and probable death. His position within Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security makes his alleged connection to the case particularly significant to investigators. Authorities are seeking information concerning his role as well as his relationships with other Iranian officials connected with the operation.

The investigation is not limited to the individuals already publicly identified by U.S. authorities. The FBI continues working to identify additional Iranian officials believed to have participated in Levinson’s abduction or possessed information concerning his detention. Information concerning Daneshvar’s associates and activities may therefore contribute to the wider investigation.

Alleged Iranian Cover-Up

Iran’s alleged efforts to conceal responsibility for Levinson’s disappearance are another major component of the case. Authorities are examining individuals allegedly involved in the original operation as well as those connected with subsequent attempts to obscure responsibility for what happened. Daneshvar is wanted for questioning concerning his alleged involvement in the case and Iran’s efforts to cover up its responsibility.

The investigation has continued despite the substantial amount of time that has passed since Levinson disappeared. U.S. authorities continue examining information concerning Iranian intelligence personnel and government officials connected with the case. Identifying everyone involved remains a central objective of the continuing investigation.

U.S. Treasury Designation

In March 2025, the United States Department of the Treasury designated Daneshvar and other individuals for their involvement in Levinson’s abduction, detention, and probable death. The action publicly identified additional Iranian officials whom U.S. authorities connect with the case. It represented a significant development approximately 18 years after Levinson initially disappeared.

The designation added to longstanding U.S. efforts to establish accountability for Levinson’s disappearance. Authorities continue seeking information about Daneshvar and other individuals connected with the operation. The passage of time has not ended efforts to determine the complete circumstances surrounding Levinson’s detention and probable death.

Continuing FBI Investigation

The FBI continues its investigation into Levinson’s disappearance and is seeking to identify additional Iranian officials involved in his abduction. Daneshvar is wanted for questioning as investigators examine the network of officials connected with Levinson’s disappearance, detention, and probable death. Information concerning other MOIS officials or individuals with knowledge of the operation may also be relevant.

The investigation remains international in scope and concerns events extending back to 2007. Individuals who possess information concerning Iranian intelligence activities connected with Levinson may be able to assist authorities even if their information relates to events that occurred many years ago. The FBI continues seeking information capable of identifying everyone involved.

Information Sought Worldwide

Anyone with information concerning Taghi Daneshvar, his whereabouts, associates, activities, or alleged involvement in the disappearance of Robert Levinson is encouraged to contact law enforcement. Information concerning other Iranian officials connected with Levinson’s abduction, detention, probable death, or the alleged efforts to conceal Iran’s responsibility may also assist the continuing investigation. Individuals should not attempt to confront anyone associated with the case and should instead provide relevant information directly to the appropriate authorities.