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Iran's New Defense Council Heads Amid Rising Tensions

2/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ali Shamkhani survived an Israeli strike in June 2025 and became secretary of Iran's new Defence Council.
The council coordinates Iran's military actions as U.S. tensions rise and Tehran warns of air strikes over stalled talks.
Shamkhani is a veteran of the Iran-Iraq War who shapes Iran's defense strategy and diplomacy.
Ali Larijani, Iran's top security official, plays a crucial role in nuclear negotiations amid external pressure.

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Story summary

Ali Shamkhani survived an Israeli strike in June 2025 and became secretary of Iran's new Defence Council.
The council coordinates Iran's military actions as U.S. tensions rise and Tehran warns of air strikes over stalled talks.
Shamkhani is a veteran of the Iran-Iraq War who shapes Iran's defense strategy and diplomacy.
Ali Larijani, Iran's top security official, plays a crucial role in nuclear negotiations amid external pressure.