Iran’s parliament has approved Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi as the country’s new defence minister, ending months of interim leadership at the ministry following the death of his predecessor in US-Israeli strikes.
The approval came on Sunday, October 18, nearly eight months after former Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh was killed during the opening phase of the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Akhlaghi takes charge of a strategically important ministry responsible for Iran’s defence production, military procurement and development of defence technologies at a time of continuing regional tensions.
Experienced Defence Industry Official Takes Charge
Akhlaghi has spent decades working in Iran’s defence sector and previously held senior positions connected to the country’s aerospace and missile industries.
He also served in a senior executive role at Iran’s Defence Ministry and worked as chief operating officer of the Aerospace Industries Organisation.
His background in defence manufacturing and military technology is expected to be significant as Tehran seeks to rebuild and strengthen its military-industrial capabilities following months of conflict.
Akhlaghi is subject to US and European Union sanctions related to his work in Iran’s defence sector.
Ministry Had Been Under Interim Leadership
The defence ministry had been without a permanent minister since Nasirzadeh was killed in February.
Following his death, Brigadier General Majid Ebn al-Reza was appointed acting defence minister. He oversaw the ministry during the period before the new appointment was approved.
The prolonged transition took place amid major changes across Iran’s military and security leadership after the US-Israeli strikes.
The appointment now gives the ministry a permanent political head, although Iran’s wider military decision-making structure also involves senior commanders and institutions linked to the country’s supreme leadership.
New Minister Warns Against Further Attacks
In remarks to lawmakers, Akhlaghi pledged to strengthen Iran’s military-industrial infrastructure, advance defence technologies and expand cooperation with private-sector companies.
He also issued a warning to Washington, saying Iran would respond forcefully if the United States launched another attack.
His comments came amid reports of US military planning for possible renewed strikes against Iranian infrastructure if hostilities resume. The appointment itself does not establish that a new round of fighting is imminent.
What the Appointment Means for Iran
The new minister’s experience in aerospace and missile-related industries could place defence production and technological development high on the ministry’s agenda.
Iran faces the challenge of maintaining its military capabilities while dealing with sanctions and the consequences of the recent conflict. The defence ministry will have a central role in procurement, industrial recovery and the development of military equipment.
However, the appointment does not by itself signal a change in Iran’s overall military policy. The direction of that policy will also depend on decisions by the country’s senior leadership and military command.
