Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi issued a decree on 22/5/2023, appointing Ali Akbar Ahmadian, a veteran Commander with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) as the new Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) succeeding Ali Shamkhani.
Ahmadian is recognized as an influential figure in the realm of Iran’s national security and a catalyst for implementing organizational changes within the military with a deep understanding of the country’s political, economic, and social issues.
The decision to appoint Ahmadian to this position was taken at the beginning of May. However, the Iranian leadership was waiting for the right time to announce it.
With Ahmadian assuming the leadership of the SNSC during a time of heightened diplomatic activities in the region, including the ongoing restoration of relations with Saudi Arabia through a China-mediated agreement known as the Beijing agreement, there is anticipation regarding the potential influence of his appointment on the evolving Iranian-Saudi rapprochement.
Tactical Report has prepared a 1276-word Profile of Ahmadian to highlight his new role and its significance, his directions, as well as his connections and key expertise providing essential information on:
-Perspectives on his appointment, especially from a Saudi standpoint
-His current status and responsibilities
-Overview of the SNSC
-His relationship with senior Iranian key figures notably President Raisi
-His professional and academic background