Setting the Tone: Senior Official Close to Mojtaba Appointed to One of Iran's Most Influential Positions
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian appointed Mohsen Rezaei as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appointed him as his representative to the council. Rezaei, a former commander of the Revolutionary Guards, will hold two senior positions in the body responsible for security and foreign policy. The appointment follows the resignation of Mohammad Bagher Zolqadr, who received a new role as political advisor to the Supreme Leader.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian yesterday (Sunday) appointed Mohsen Rezaei as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, one of the most sensitive and influential positions in Iran's decision-making system. In parallel, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appointed Rezaei as his representative to the council, so that Rezaei will hold two senior positions in the body responsible for shaping Tehran's security and foreign policy. The appointment was made following the resignation of Mohammad Bagher Zolqadr, who two days ago issued an ultimatum to the US regarding the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Zolqadr was subsequently appointed as the Supreme Leader's political advisor. Khamenei issued a separate decree appointing Rezaei as his representative, citing his valuable experience. Following the appointment, Rezaei and Saeed Jalili will serve as the Supreme Leader's two representatives on the council. Rezaei, who was commander of the Revolutionary Guards during the Iran-Iraq War, is considered a hawkish voice toward the US and Israel. About a week ago, he tweeted that if the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz continues, American vessels and forces will face serious risks. The official announcement came after conflicting reports regarding the division of roles, which were finally confirmed in separate decrees.