Who is Mehrdad Akhlaghi, Iran’s new tech-focused defence minister?

Tehran, Iran – Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi has been appointed Iran’s defence minister at a time when the war with the United States is expected to escalate.

The position was filled temporarily by Majid Ebn-e Reza, who will now become Akhlaghi’s deputy.

In total, 237 lawmakers voted in favour of Akhlaghi’s appointment and 15 against.

Akhlaghi will be responsible for rebuilding and expanding Iran’s military-industrial infrastructure, which has been heavily targeted by the US and Israel.