Iran’s new security boss Mohammad Zolghadr: Why his appointment matters

Iran on Tuesday appointed Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as the successor to Ali Larijani — who was killed in an air strike last week — as the head of the country's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC). Zolghadr, a former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander and secretary of the Expediency Council, is described as a 'heavyweight security figure.' His appointment comes amid a complex security situation involving military pressure from the United States-Israeli war on Iran, domestic protests, and ongoing strikes in cities like Tehran and Isfahan. Zolghadr will oversee strategic portfolios, including potential negotiations with the US and Iran's pressure campaign in the Strait of Hormuz.