Ahmad Vahidi’s influence on Iran has grown as the IRGC commander helps shape Tehran’s strategy, while talks with Washington remain fragile.
Brig. Gen. Ahmad Vahidi took command of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps after Mohammad Pakpour died in US-Israeli strikes on February 28.
Iran, whose capital is Tehran, sits in Western Asia. The United States, whose capital is Washington, sits in North America.
Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group said Vahidi has a “loud voice” in Iran’s decision-making system. He said Iran still makes decisions through a broader process.
Vahidi is wanted by Interpol over alleged involvement in the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community centre in Buenos Aires. He also faces US sanctions tied to crackdowns on domestic protests.
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US President Donald Trump has warned that Washington could strike Iran again if talks fail. Vahidi warned that any renewed attack on Iranian soil would expand the conflict beyond the region.