Iran Parliament Approves Akhlaqi as Defense Minister After Predecessor Killed in Israeli Strike

Iran's parliament confirmed Mehrad Akhlaqi as defense minister, filling a vacancy left when Aziz Nasirzadeh was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike on February 28. Akhlaqi's background in Iran's defense industry suggests continuity in military procurement and deterrence policy. The appointment signals institutional stability despite ongoing conflict, but the strategic direction under Akhlaqi remains untested.