Iran's New Defense Minister Threatens Retaliation Against US and Israel

Iran announced on Sunday the appointment of Mehrdad Akhlaghi, a long-time senior official in the Islamic Republic's missile industry, as its new Defense Minister. Akhlaghi, who has been subject to U.S. and European sanctions for his work in Iran's defense sector, particularly its missile program, was approved by the Iranian parliament. He presented a plan to rebuild the nation's military infrastructure, accelerate defense technology development, and expand cooperation with private sector companies. Previously, Akhlaghi headed the Shahid Bakeri Industrial Group, involved in ballistic missile production, and was placed on UN and U.S. Treasury sanctions lists in 2007 and 2008 respectively.

Following his appointment and in the wake of Nasirzadeh's elimination, Akhlaghi stated, "I have been on the enemy's assassination list for 35 years." He warned of a severe response if the "American-Israeli enemy makes another mistake," vowing that the "Iranian people's reaction will be surprising and extensive." He emphasized that strengthening the "axis of resistance" would be a cornerstone of his plan and that he would reform the Defense Ministry to adapt to current circumstances and daily threats. Akhlaghi also claimed Tehran has taken necessary steps to counter the potential use of the U.S.'s most powerful non-nuclear bomb, the "Mother of All Bombs," against Iran. He directly addressed President Donald Trump, stating, "Trump needs to think about how to get his people out of the region healthy and whole. Let him try to drop one bomb, and then we will see how many bodies he will have to clear." He added that Iran is building new facilities within mountains and secure structures, and is "ready for war against the Zionists."

Akhlaghi also promised the launch of a fully Iranian-made heavy fighter jet next year. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Iran's proposal to end the war and open the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, a plan previously rejected by Trump. Araghchi stated that if the U.S. shows sincerity, the strait would reopen on the sixth day and talks would resume on the seventh, provided U.S. sanctions are lifted, frozen Iranian funds are released, and fighting ceases on "all fronts." This effectively calls for a return to a previous understanding where the U.S. made concessions, which Trump is currently unwilling to do, demanding immediate nuclear concessions from Iran instead. Amidst the diplomatic stalemate, Iran has escalated attacks on oil tankers and ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi concluded by asserting that Tehran is prepared for self-defense but remains open to diplomacy based on respect and the assurance of Iranian rights.