Tehran:The commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has expressed full support for Mehrdad Akhlaqi, the newly appointed Minister of Defense, following his successful vote of confidence in parliament.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Major General Ahmad Vahidi emphasized the IRGC's readiness to enhance strategic cooperation with the Ministry of Defense to effectively counter hybrid warfare from adversaries.

In his message to Akhlaqi, Vahidi congratulated him on his decisive parliamentary backing and appointment by President Masoud Pezeshkian. He highlighted the parliament and nation's trust in Akhlaqi's abilities to manage the defense ministry during critical times, amidst ongoing threats and challenges.

Major General Vahidi also stressed the importance of continuing the efforts initiated by the former defense minister, Major General Aziz Nasirzadeh, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. He wished Akhlaqi success and urged adherence to the principles of Imam Khomeini and the martyred Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, while following the guidance of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Sayyid Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.