Mohsen Rezaei named Iran’s top security chief
Mohsen Rezaei has been appointed as the Leader’s representative to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and as the council’s new secretary, replacing Mohammad Bagher Zolqadr. The decision was issued in a decree that highlighted Rezaei’s long record in Iran’s military and political structure, especially his role as one of the main commanders during the Iran-Iraq war. The change places one of the Islamic Republic’s most veteran figures at the center of the country’s top security body.
The decree also thanked Zolqadr for his round-the-clock service and noted his reassignment to a new role as political adviser. Iranian officials said Zolqadr had stepped down from the secretary post before Rezaei’s appointment was announced. The move was later confirmed by the president’s office, which said the transition reflected a change in responsibilities within the security leadership.
Rezaei is a familiar name in Iran’s power establishment. He commanded the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps for years, later served as secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council, and also held the post of vice president for economic affairs under President Ebrahim Raeisi. More recently, he had been appointed as a senior military adviser, further deepening his role in strategic affairs.
His appointment comes at a time of mounting tension with the United States and continuing disputes over security in the Persian Gulf region. Rezaei has recently warned that if the US blockade continues, American vessels and forces could face serious risks and casualties.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf also praised the appointment, calling Rezaei’s record one of long service, sacrifice, and commitment to the state. In his message, Qalibaf said the country is facing one of the most sensitive periods in its history and stressed the importance of unity across political, military, and diplomatic fronts.
