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World News Al Jazeera World • Oct 18, 2026

Iran Parliament Approves Mehrdad Akhlaqi Ketabchi as New Defence Minister Following US-Israeli Strikes

💡 Key Takeaways

•Iran's Parliament approved Mehrdad Akhlaqi Ketabchi as the new Minister of Defence, succeeding interim head Majid Ebn al-Reza.
•The succession was triggered by the killing of former Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh in U.S.-Israeli strikes in February.
•Akhlaghi's portfolio focuses on ballistic missiles, aerospace technology, and defence manufacturing, alongside demanding the withdrawal of U.S. personnel from the region.

NEW DELHI [NCRBuzz Wire] — ### Parliamentary Approval and Succession

TEHRAN — Iran's Parliament has officially approved Mehrdad Akhlaqi Ketabchi as the nation's new Minister of Defence. He replaces Majid Ebn al-Reza, who had assumed leadership in an interim capacity following the death of former Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh during U.S.-Israeli strikes in February.

### Strategic Background and Focus

Akhlaghi’s professional background centers heavily on ballistic missiles, aerospace technology, and domestic defence-industrial production. International and regional observers are closely monitoring his appointment as Tehran navigates complex geopolitical tensions, multilateral arms regulations, and regional maritime security.

### Regional Posture and Warnings

Following his approval, the new defence minister adopted a firm regional posture, publicly urging U.S. military personnel to evacuate the region amidst Washington's signals of an extended military presence. The leadership change is expected to directly impact Iran's domestic military manufacturing capabilities and strategic diplomatic positioning.

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🏛️ Background Context

The Iranian defence ministry manages the country's military-industrial complex, overseeing domestic arms development and strategic logistics. This appointment comes at a critical juncture of heightened direct military confrontation and regional escalation involving U.S. and Israeli operations.

💡 Citizen & Commuter Quick Explainer (FAQ)

Q1: What is Mehrdad Akhlaghi's primary area of professional expertise?

His experience centers directly on ballistic missiles, aerospace technology, and defence-industrial production.

Q2: Why is this ministerial appointment significant for international observers?

It highlights Tehran's strategic focus on technological self-reliance and missile system manufacturing amid regional geopolitical tensions.

Q3: What immediate sectors are being evaluated by global analysts?

Analysts are monitoring defence procurement, multilateral arms control implications, and regional maritime security impacts.

Verified Wires: Al Jazeera World, The Hindu World, Google News World (India Perspective) Original Wire Dispatch ↗

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