Mehrdad Akhlaghi | Hyderabad, Oct. 18: Iran parliament has approved Mehrdad Akhlaghi as the country’s new Defence Minister, filling a key position that had reportedly remained vacant for months.
Akhlaghi secured 237 votes out of 277 cast during a parliamentary session on Sunday. He will serve as Minister of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics.
Mehrdad Akhlaghi Brings Decades of Defence Industry Experience
Akhlaghi was nominated following the reported death of former Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh in a US-Israeli airstrike. He has served in Iran’s Defence Ministry for 42 years and has led the Iranian Defence Industries Organization since 2013.
Although he does not hold a direct military rank, Akhlaghi has extensive experience in Iran’s defence manufacturing sector. The United Nations imposed sanctions on him in 2007 over alleged involvement in nuclear and ballistic missile development activities, according to the report.
Speaking before the parliamentary vote, Akhlaghi described the defence portfolio as particularly sensitive given Iran’s current circumstances. He stressed the need to understand unfolding developments and prepare for future challenges.
His appointment comes amid ongoing regional tensions and efforts to secure a ceasefire. His experience in missile technology and defence production is expected to draw international attention.
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