Tehran:President Masoud Pezeshkian has defended his choice of Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi for the role of defense minister, expressing optimism that Ketabchi's expertise will enhance Iran's defense capabilities.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Pezeshkian addressed lawmakers during a parliamentary confidence vote on Sunday, emphasizing Ketabchi's widely recognized scientific qualifications and expertise within Iran's defense sector. He highlighted Ketabchi's collaboration with key figures in the defense industry, such as martyrs Hassan Tehrani Moghaddam, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, and Amir Ali Hajizadeh, as testament to his dedication to the Islamic Republic.

Pezeshkian praised Ketabchi's progression through various roles at the Ministry of Defense, citing his experience as a reason for confidence in his leadership abilities. He also commended the Armed Forces for their defense efforts, which have brought international respect to Iran.

The president pointed out that Ketabchi has been on sanction and assassination lists of adversaries, underscoring the need to safeguard him and other Iranian scientists and military leaders. Pezeshkian paid tribute to the late Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh and acknowledged Brigadier General Majid Ebn al-Reza's contributions as caretaker of the Defense Ministry.

Emphasizing the importance of missiles and national unity as defense factors, Pezeshkian insisted that Iran's defensive strength lies in its people and public solidarity. He reaffirmed Iran's stance of not initiating wars and resisting external pressures.

Iran's parliament approved Ketabchi's appointment as the new minister of defense and armed forces logistics, with lawmakers voting 237 in favor and 15 against, out of 277 present.