Story perspectives

New IRGC Commander Vows Retaliation After Khamenei's Death

3/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi is appointed commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) after the reported killing of General Mohammad Pakpour in U.S.-Israeli strikes.
The leadership change comes amid tensions after the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The IRGC announced plans for a significant retaliatory campaign against Israel and U.S. bases.
Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned Khamenei's killing as an open declaration of war against Muslims.

History

Historical Context

Established in May 1979 following the Iranian Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was tasked with protecting the new Islamic Republic. Its influence surged after the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis in 1979, leading to a 50% budget increase in 1980. The recent appointment of Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi as commander-in-chief highlights ongoing tensions, particularly after the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in 2026.

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Story summary

Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi is appointed commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) after the reported killing of General Mohammad Pakpour in U.S.-Israeli strikes.
The leadership change comes amid tensions after the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The IRGC announced plans for a significant retaliatory campaign against Israel and U.S. bases.
Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned Khamenei's killing as an open declaration of war against Muslims.

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