Iran appointed Mohsen Rezaei as the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council on Aug. 10, 2026 [3].

The appointment places a high-ranking military figure in charge of the body that coordinates the nation's security and foreign policy. This shift occurs as the country navigates a period of intense regional conflict.

Rezaei replaces Mohammad Baqer Zu al-Qadar, who had served as secretary since March 2024 [2]. The Supreme National Security Council is chaired by President Ebrahim Raisi and serves as the highest security authority in the state [1].

Rezaei is a former military commander and currently serves as the chief military advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei [1]. His elevation to this influential role suggests a move to consolidate security leadership under a trusted aide of the Supreme Leader.

This leadership change follows a period of heightened instability. War with the U.S. and Israel began more than five months before the appointment [1].

Rezaei has previously emphasized the strategic importance of regional geography in maintaining national stability. "The Strait of Hormuz plays an important role in ensuring Iranian national security," Rezaei said [1].

An official statement from the Iranian presidency confirmed the move, noting that the presidency announced the appointment of Mohsen Rezaei as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council [2].

While some reports indicate the appointment, other sources have suggested different roles for the officials involved. However, the primary announcement from the presidency identifies Rezaei as the new secretary [1, 2].

“The Strait of Hormuz plays an important role in ensuring Iranian national security”

The appointment of Mohsen Rezaei signals a pivot toward a more militarized approach to Iranian foreign and security policy. By installing a former commander and a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during an active conflict with the U.S. and Israel, the Iranian leadership is likely prioritizing military readiness and internal loyalty over the diplomatic channels that may have characterized previous tenures.