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Mohsen Rezaei, a 71-year-old former commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has assumed leadership of the Supreme National Security Council, the nation’s highest security institution. Rezaei previously headed the IRGC during the 1980s Iran-Iraq War and later served on the Expediency Discernment Council, which mediates legislative disputes between parliament and the Guardian Council. His appointment comes as Iran navigates ongoing military tensions with the United States and Israel while engaging in discussions concerning the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
The timing of Rezaei’s appointment carries substantial geopolitical weight. He replaces Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr in a position that sits at the intersection of presidential, military, and security agency interests. During recent months, Rezaei has emphasized Iran’s strategic interests in the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of global energy supplies transit. He has previously stated that controlling this waterway holds greater importance than nuclear capabilities and warned of serious consequences should blockades persist.
Analysts suggest Rezaei’s selection reflects deliberate strategic positioning. His military credentials combined with his broader governmental experience enable him to coordinate between various state institutions during this critical period. Additionally, his electoral alignment during the 2024 presidential race indicates he represents a faction open to negotiations with Washington, positioning him as a potential bridge-builder between Iran’s competing political factions during sensitive international talks.
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Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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