Kathmandu— Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has appointed Mohsen Rezaee, formerly the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), as his representative to the country’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC). The move replaces Mohammad Baqir Zolghadr, and was announced via a decree published on Sunday. This appointment follows the assassination of Ali Larijani in March and the subsequent brief tenure of Zolghadr, signaling continued personnel shifts within Iran's top security apparatus amid ongoing regional tensions and questions surrounding Khamenei’s leadership.

Leadership Transition and Appointments

The announcement came through an account attributed to Mojtaba Khamenei on X, praising Rezaee’s experience as one of the first commanders during the Iran-Iraq war – referred to within Iran as the ‘Sacred Defence’. Khamenei also expressed appreciation for Zolghadr's “round-the-clock efforts” and simultaneously appointed him as his Political Advisor. This dual move suggests an effort to both bring in experienced security personnel while retaining valued advisors.

Recent Leadership Challenges

The position of representative on the SNSC has seen recent upheaval, previously held by Ali Larijani who was killed in what Iranian state media described as US-Israeli strikes. Following Larijani’s death, Mohammad Baqir Zolghadr briefly filled the role before being replaced by Rezaee. These changes occur against a backdrop of reported instability surrounding Khamenei himself; Israeli media recently claimed he was in “extremely critical condition,” prompting Iranian news agencies to release footage intended to demonstrate his good health.

Economic and Military Discussions

On Sunday, state broadcaster Press TV reported that President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to discuss the country’s military and economic affairs. The talks reportedly covered issues such as managing resources, foreign currency expenditures, energy management, and economic engagement with international partners, as well as the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel. These discussions were also shared via Khamenei's X account, detailing concerns about “the third imposed war” and its impact on the Iranian people.

The appointments and reported meetings indicate a continued focus on security and economic stability within Iran, particularly in light of regional conflicts and recent leadership challenges. Further developments are expected as the new representatives assume their roles.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.