$25M Bounty Issued for Iranian Operatives Behind Jewish FBI Agent’s Disappearance

Levinson, a 28-year veteran of the FBI and DEA, went missing in March 2007 on Iran’s Kish Island, where he was reportedly investigating cigarette smuggling. At the time, he was 58 years old. Despite Iran’s repeated denials, U.S. officials and Levinson’s family have long suspected that Iranian intelligence operatives were behind his disappearance.

The last known proof of life came in 2010-2011 when Levinson’s family received a photo and video showing him gaunt and pleading for help. Although these materials were sent from Pakistan, U.S. intelligence traced them back to Iran, strengthening suspicions about his captivity.

In March 2020, after years of uncertainty, Levinson's family was informed by U.S. officials that he had likely died in Iranian custody sometime before the COVID-19 pandemic. His case has been a major point of contention in U.S.-Iran relations and has been repeatedly raised during diplomatic negotiations between the two countries.

FBI Agent Sanjay Virmani, speaking about the investigation, said, "The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to return Bob to his family. 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."

Under the Trump administration, the reward for information about Levinson was raised from $5 million to $20 million in 2019. Now, the bounty has been increased to $25 million, with the focus on two key Iranian officials: Mohammad Baseri and Ahmad. Both are part of Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) and are accused of involvement in counterespionage operations targeting U.S. interests.

The FBI’s continued efforts to bring those responsible for Levinson’s disappearance to justice highlight the ongoing determination to resolve this long-standing and tragic case.