Updated

Iranian Defense Minister-designate Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi met with Major General Abdollahi, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, on October 17, 2026, to discuss strengthening defensive capabilities and the defense industry. Abdollahi separately praised Akhlaghi's nomination as 'well-deserved' given his experience in Iran's defense industry, as the new minister prepares to take on the post.