The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) announced the appointment ofBrigadier General Ahmad Vahidias its new commander-in-chief on Sunday (IST), replacing the interim leadership. Vahidi, a seasoned military figure who has previously served as Iran’sMinister of Defence and Interior, took over after six months as interim chief and at a pivotal moment in the region’s mounting conflict.

His appointment comes amidintense armed hostilitiesbetween Iran and the combined forces of theUnited StatesandIsrael, which recently launched extensive military action under operations codenamedOperation Epic FuryandOperation Roar of the Lion. These strikes reportedly targeted key Iranian military facilities, government offices, and the residences of top leaders.

Reports indicate that IranianSupreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led the country since 1989, was killed during these operations, prompting widespread upheaval within Iran’s political and military hierarchy. As tensions escalate, Tehran is reorganising its command structure, with Vahidi now tasked with leading the elite IRGC’s strategic and defensive efforts in the evolving conflict.