Iran names battle-tested commanders

Iran names battle-tested commanders

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker and senior negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf have defended the country’s latest military appointments, saying the newly selected commanders bring extensive battlefield experience to their new positions.

Their comments came after Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei approved the appointment of six senior military commanders to key positions within Iran’s armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

In a post on his Telegram channel, Araghchi said the six commanders had demonstrated their capabilities during the two recent wars imposed on Iran. He described their combat experience as an important factor behind their selection for senior military roles.

Ghalibaf also welcomed the appointments, according to a statement carried by Iranian state media. He specifically highlighted General Ahmad Vahidi, saying Vahidi led the IRGC during the recent 40-day war and gained significant operational experience during the conflict.

Ghalibaf said the IRGC should continue its mission while drawing on the guidance and direction of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. He also stressed the importance of maintaining the force’s capabilities and experience as Iran faces continued regional security challenges.

The latest appointments cover some of Iran’s most influential military positions. They include the chief and deputy chief of staff of the Armed Forces, the commander and deputy commander of the IRGC, the commander of the IRGC Navy, and the commander of the Basij paramilitary force.

Iranian officials have presented the appointments as part of an effort to place experienced military figures in strategic command positions. The emphasis on commanders with recent battlefield experience also reflects the security pressures Iran has faced during the latest period of regional conflict.

The appointments are expected to shape Iran’s military leadership and operational strategy in the period ahead, particularly as Tehran continues to deal with heightened tensions and evolving security challenges across the region.