Politics · Tehran, Iran · October 18, 2026

Iran appoints new defence minister who warns US of 'enormous damage'

Reported by 3 outlets · first reported Oct 18, 5:59 AM ET

Iran's parliament approved Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi as defence minister, replacing an interim minister. He warned that any new US 'miscalculation' would draw a surprising and extensive response.

Why it matters

Tehran's rhetoric signals continued risk of renewed US-Iran hostilities affecting the Gulf.

Background

The previous defence minister, Aziz Nasirzadeh, was killed in a US-Israeli strike on February 28 that also killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to reports. The war has disrupted Gulf shipping since.

Sources

• The Hindu ↗Oct 18, 10:34 AM ET
• Middle East Eye ↗Oct 18, 5:59 AM ET
• Reuters ↗October 18, 2026

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