Appointment of Ali Larijani as Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council
WANA (Aug 05) – According to the Presidential Office’s official website, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has appointed Dr. Ali Ardeshir Larijani as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), based on Article 176 of the Constitution.
In his decree addressed to Larijani, the President stated: “Pursuant to Article 176 of the Constitution, and in view of your commitment, distinguished record, and valuable managerial experience, you are hereby appointed as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. It is expected that, relying on Almighty God and in collaboration with other Council members, you will, through prudent oversight of the Secretariat’s functions and by fostering synergy among relevant institutions, monitor and prioritize national security issues and risks—particularly emerging and technological threats—while redefining strategic concepts and adopting a smart, people-centered approach, so that the country may achieve sustainable security at the national, regional, and international levels.”
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WANA (Aug 01) – With structural reforms in Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) nearing completion, informed sources report the establishment of a new body called the “Defense Council.” This newly formed council will be tasked with strategic responsibilities related to the country’s defense policies. Its organizational structure is expected to be finalized soon. […]
What is the Supreme National Security Council?
The Supreme National Security Council, established under Article 176 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, is the country’s highest security policymaking body. Its mandate is to formulate general defense and security policies in coordination with broader national strategies. Its decisions become binding once approved by the Supreme Leader.
The Council is chaired by the President, while the Secretary manages the Secretariat, coordinates military, security, and diplomatic bodies, and prepares the Council’s agenda. Members include the heads of the three branches of government, senior military commanders, key ministers (such as Foreign Affairs and Interior), and special representatives of the Supreme Leader.
“War Room” in Tehran: Why Has the Defense Council Been Revived?
WANA (Aug 05) – Tehran has once again turned to one of its oldest security mechanisms: the National Defense Council. A body that had long remained silent is now reactivated at one of the region’s most volatile moments. Reviving this council is more than an organizational adjustment; it sends a clear message: Iran is preparing […]
Ali Larijani’s Background
Ali Larijani, born in 1957, is one of the veteran figures in Iranian politics and governance. He holds a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Tehran and has published articles in philosophy and political science.
Larijani previously served as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council from 2005 to 2007. Over the years, he has held key positions including Speaker of the Parliament (during the 8th, 9th, and 10th terms), head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (1993–2004), Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance in President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani’s first administration, and Deputy Chief of Staff of the IRGC (1989–1992).
In June 2004, he was appointed by the Supreme Leader as his representative to the SNSC, and a year later became its Secretary. In recent years, he has also served as an advisor to the Supreme Leader and as a member of the Expediency Discernment Council.
Larijani ran for president in 2005, 2021, and 2024. However, his candidacy was not approved by the Guardian Council in the latter two elections.
The senior advisor to the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Larijani, and Ali-Akbar Ahmadian, the current Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. Social media/ WANA News Agency
Prior to Larijani, Ali-Akbar Ahmadian, a member of the Expediency Discernment Council, had served as Secretary of the SNSC since June 2023. At the end of his decree, President Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Ahmadian’s service in this role.
Following the appointment of Ali Larijani as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Ali-Akbar Ahmadian — who previously held the position — is set to join the administration.
According to informed sources, a new deputyship is expected to be created within the government structure, with President Masoud Pezeshkian appointing Ahmadian to lead it, tasked with carrying out special missions for the administration.
