Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi Named New Commander-in-Chief of IRGC: Reports

Iran: Veteran military officer Ahmed Vahidi has now been made the new Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC. Vahidi has previously been defense minister and interior minister. He was the interim chief of the IRGC for the last six months, and now the command has been officially handed over to him.

When and why did this appointment happen?

This decision has come at a time when Iran is embroiled in an open war with America and Israel. On Saturday itself, America and Israel jointly conducted a major operation. The US named it 'Operation Epic Fury', while Israel called it 'Operation Roar of the Lion.' These attacks took place on many military bases, government offices and homes of top leaders of Iran.

Is Khamenei dead?

The biggest target of the attacks was the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. According to Reuters report, 86-year-old Khamenei, who has ruled Iran since 1989, was killed in the attacks on Saturday morning. Iran initially denied it, but the death was later confirmed. After Khamenei's death, it became necessary to appoint a new chief in IRGC, because this force works directly under the Supreme Leader.

Who is Ahmed Wahidi?

Ahmed Wahidi is not a new name. He is an old member of IRGC and has played a big role in Iran's security and military for a long time. While being the defense minister, he had greatly strengthened Iran's missile and defense program. Even as interior minister, he had a hand in domestic security. Being the interim chief for six months, he was already commanding the IRGC, now the official stamp was put on it.

What will happen now?

This appointment is a big change for Iran. The IRGC is already waging retaliatory attacks, and the arrival of a hardliner like Wahidi could escalate the war. Tension is at its peak in the Middle East – America and Israel are talking about continuing the attacks, Iran is also not backing down. The coming days will tell how aggressive the IRGC will be under the new commander.

Overall, leadership is changing in Iran, but the war is not stopping. The situation is very critical, and concern is increasing around the world