TEHRAN, Oct 18: Iran’s parliament on Sunday approved Mehrdad Akhlaqi Ketabchi as the country’s new defence minister, with the newly confirmed official warning that any further military action by the United States and Israel would invite a “surprising and extensive” response from Tehran.
Akhlaqi secured 237 votes in favour and 15 against, with no abstentions, out of 277 votes cast during a parliamentary session conducted via video conference, Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported.
Speaking ahead of the confirmation vote, Akhlaqi cautioned Washington and Tel Aviv against launching another attack on Iranian territory, asserting that Tehran would respond with significant force.
“If the American-Israeli enemy once again makes a miscalculation, the response of the Iranian nation and the fighters of Islam will be surprising and extensive,” he said.
He further warned that the United States and its allies would be responsible for any regional and international consequences arising from a renewed confrontation.
Akhlaqi also claimed that he had remained on his adversaries’ assassination list for 35 years and vowed to reinforce what Iran describes as the “resistance front”, referring to its network of regional allies and affiliated groups.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressing lawmakers virtually during the confirmation proceedings, urged parliamentarians to endorse the nominee, citing his experience and support from the country’s armed forces and security institutions.
Pezeshkian said Akhlaqi was already under US sanctions and alleged that he had also been placed on an American assassination list.
“I hope he takes care of himself,” the president said, expressing his wish that the incoming minister would remain safe and continue contributing to Iran’s defence capabilities.
The Iranian president maintained that Tehran had no intention of attacking other countries but would firmly defend itself against any assault on its territory.
“Our defence is not only missiles; our defence is the people and the unity and cohesion we have in the country,” Pezeshkian said.
He added that Iran would not surrender to external pressure or what he characterised as intimidation by countries launching attacks against it.
Akhlaqi’s appointment follows the death of former Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, who was killed during the initial US-Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28. Majid Ebn al-Reza subsequently assumed the role of acting defence minister.
The new minister brings extensive experience in Iran’s defence establishment. He previously headed the Aerospace Industries Organization and the Shahid Bagheri Industrial Group, which has been associated with the country’s ballistic missile programme. Washington has imposed sanctions on him over his alleged involvement in missile-related activities.
Outlining his priorities, Akhlaqi said he intended to expand domestic defence manufacturing, strengthen research and development, and improve coordination across Iran’s industrial network.
He also highlighted the need to restructure the Defence Ministry to address changing security challenges and emerging military threats.
His confirmation comes amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington and their respective regional positions following the February attacks. Akhlaqi’s remarks signal that Iran’s leadership intends to maintain a firm deterrence posture while investing further in its domestic military capabilities.
The appointment places an experienced defence industry official at the head of Iran’s military administration at a time when the country faces mounting security pressures and the prospect of further confrontation.