Iran Establishes New National Defense Council Amid Rising Tensions with Israel

Iran establishes a new National Defense Council to bolster military coordination amid recent tensions with Israel. Approved by the country's top security authority on Sunday, this council aims to centralize defense planning and enhance Iran's military capabilities following a brief air conflict with Israel in June—the most significant since the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s. According to official statements, the council will oversee defense strategies and is chaired by President Masoud Pezeshkian. Its membership includes leaders from Iran's three branches of government, senior military officials, and relevant ministries. Military Chief Major General Amir Hatami emphasized that threats from Israel remain significant and should be taken seriously. This development reflects Iran's ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense posture amid regional tensions. © 2025 Thomson/Reuters. All rights reserved.