Iran Appoints New Defense Minister with Extensive Missile Experience

By ספיר ליפקין

Translated & summarized from Mako by baba

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Iran's parliament has approved Mehrdad Akhlaghi as the new Defense Minister, bringing 43 years of experience in missile development. His appointment follows the elimination of his predecessor and comes amid heightened regional tensions. Akhlaghi has previously threatened the U.S. with severe retaliation if attacked. Analysts suggest his selection signals Iran's strategic focus on expanding its missile capabilities and preparing for sustained conflict.

The story in 6 lines · by baba

Mehrdad Akhlaghi was approved as Iran's new Defense Minister with extensive experience in missile development.
Akhlaghi brings 43 years of experience in Iran's defense industries, focusing on ballistic missiles.
The U.S. previously sanctioned Akhlaghi in 2008 for his role in missile-related activities.
Akhlaghi has issued threats against the U.S. regarding potential military action.
Analysts view Akhlaghi's appointment as a strategic move to bolster Iran's missile program.
Iran's Foreign Minister indicated readiness for diplomatic progress under specific conditions.

Iran Appoints New Defense Minister with Extensive Missile Experience — Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Iran's parliament approved Mehrdad Akhlaghi as the new Defense Minister on Sunday, with 237 votes in favor, 15 against, and no abstentions. Akhlaghi, 68, brings 43 years of experience in Iran's defense industries, particularly in missile development and production. He previously headed the Shahid Bakeri Industries Group, responsible for solid-fuel ballistic missiles, and in 2014 became CEO of the Aerospace Industries Organization under the Defense Ministry.

The United States sanctioned Akhlaghi in 2008 due to his activities with Shahid Bakeri, including negotiations for equipment procurement. His appointment follows the elimination of his predecessor, Aziz Nasirzadeh, during Operation "Lion's Roar" in February, after which Majid Ebn-e Razza served as acting minister.

Akhlaghi has issued threats against the U.S., stating, "If he drops one bomb, he will see how many people he will have to take out horizontally." He also warned that any attack on Iran would result in severe damage to both the attacker and the region.

Senior Researcher Dani Sitrinovitch from INSS commented that Akhlaghi's selection is "not accidental" and reflects Tehran's strategic direction toward significantly expanding its missile capabilities, accelerating production, and strengthening its ability to sustain prolonged military operations. Sitrinovitch added that Iran is preparing for military confrontations as a regular strategic reality rather than isolated incidents.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran will not bow to threats and is ready for diplomatic progress if it is respectful and ensures Iranian rights. He also indicated that a clear framework for the Strait of Hormuz has been presented to the U.S., with negotiations potentially resuming if conditions are met.

Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, tweeted that Iranian armed forces have prepared a more destructive plan than previous conflicts for any "new adventure," indicating that future operations will not follow conventional rules.