After the death of Mohammad Kazemi in an Israeli airstrike, Iran has quickly named Majid Khademi as the new head of the IRGC Intelligence Organisation. According to Iran International, Khademi earlier served as the head of the Intelligence Protection Organisation under the Defence Ministry.
Israeli Strike Kills Two Top Intelligence Officials
On June 15, Israel launched a targeted airstrike that killed both Kazemi and his deputy Hassan Mohaqiq. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later confirmed the strike and their deaths. As a result, Iran has moved to fill key intelligence and military roles swiftly.
Khamenei Announces Key Military Appointments
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei announced a new leadership lineup. Three senior commanders had died in recent Israeli attacks, prompting immediate changes at the top.
Three Top Generals Get New Roles
First, Major General Seyyed Abdolrahim Mousavi has been promoted to Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. Second, Major General Ali Shadmani is now the Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, replacing the late General Gholamali Rashid. Third, Major General Mohammad Pakpour has taken over as the Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC, filling the post left by the late General Hossein Salami.
Supreme Leader Honors Fallen Officers
In his formal decree, Khamenei called Bagheri’s death an “honourable martyrdom at the hands of the malicious Zionist regime.”
He praised Mousavi for his past service and leadership qualities. Furthermore, he expressed full confidence in Mousavi’s ability to lead the armed forces during this crisis.
Strategic Duties for New Appointees
Khamenei also gave Shadmani a clear mission. He asked him to improve strategic coordination, especially in measuring the combat readiness of the military.
Shadmani must work closely with the General Staff to ensure Iran’s forces are well-prepared in the face of ongoing threats. Likewise, Khamenei chose Pakpour for his strong leadership background in the IRGC Ground Forces. In his message, he stressed the importance of mixing military power with cultural and spiritual strength in the IRGC’s leadership.
Iran Faces Growing Conflict With Israel
These major changes come amid rising tension between Iran and Israel. In recent weeks, Israeli airstrikes have repeatedly hit sensitive Iranian military sites. As a result, Iran has lost several top commanders. Yet, it has acted swiftly to install new leaders and show stability.
Iran Sends Message of Strength
With these new appointments, Iran aims to send a message of strength and continuity. Despite the heavy losses, the Iranian leadership wants to assure its people and rivals that its military structure remains strong.
As the conflict with Israel escalates, the newly appointed generals now face the challenge of defending Iran and coordinating a possible response.