Mohsen Rezaei Appointed to Iran's Supreme National Security Council

Iran has appointed Mohsen Rezaei, a former Revolutionary Guard commander, as the new head of its Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) on 9 August 2026. The announcement was made by President Masoud Pezeshkian after Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr stepped down from the post.

About Mohsen Rezaei

1. Age: 71 years
2. Served as Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from 1981 to 1997
3. Led the IRGC through most of the Iran-Iraq war
4. Most recently worked as a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei
5. Has held several senior political positions over his career
6. Known for his hardline views on Iran's security, especially regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

Why does Mohsen Rezaei's Appointment Became Important?

Rezaei's appointment marks the latest leadership change in Iran's national security setup this year. It comes at a time when Iran is negotiating the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and given his previously strong stance on the Strait, his appointment could shape how these negotiations move forward. More broadly, the reshuffle shows how Iran continues to reorganise its top security posts after losing several senior officials during recent conflict.

Mohsen Rezaei Replaced SNSC Secretary Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr

Zolghadr had held the post only since March 2026, after taking over from Ali Larijani, who was killed in an Israeli strike. His tenure at the SNSC was therefore fairly brief before this latest change.

Mohsen Zolghadr Was Appointed Political Adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader

After resigning from the SNSC, Zolghadr was given a new role as political adviser to Supreme Leader Khamenei. Meanwhile, talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz have picked up momentum, with Oman helping mediate between Iran and other parties. Reports suggest a deal may be reached soon, after which the US is expected to lift its blockade on Iranian ports. The Strait of Hormuz remains a key global energy route and a major point of tension between Iran and the US.