After Larijani’s Death, Iran Names Mohammad Zolghadr as New Security Chief

Iran has appointed Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as the new secretary of its Supreme National Security Council, days after the killing of senior leader Ali Larijani in a strike last week.

Zolghadr, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was previously serving as secretary of the Expediency Council. His appointment comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing conflict. Larijani, a close aide to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, was a key figure in Iran’s political establishment, known for bridging power centres and leading negotiations with foreign governments. His killing is being seen as a major setback for the leadership.

Talks Hopes, But No Slowdown

Donald Trump said Washington is engaged in “productive” talks with Tehran, raising hopes of a possible de-escalation. However, Iran has denied any negotiations, and fighting continues unabated. Trump has extended the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, saying the US will hold off strikes on Iranian power facilities for five days to allow diplomacy a chance.

Iranian officials said the US move followed Tehran’s “firm warning”, while a military spokesperson said the country’s forces would fight “until complete victory”.

Heavy Losses Mount

The conflict has caused significant casualties, with over 1,500 deaths reported in Iran and more than 1,000 in Lebanon. Fatalities have also been reported in Israel and among US personnel, while millions have been displaced across the region.