Leader appoints new commanders to top military posts

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in two separate decrees on Tuesday appointed a new deputy chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces and a new commander for the Basij (volunteer) forces.

Ayatollah Khamenei, who is also Commander-in-Chief of Iran's Armed Forces, appointed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani as the new deputy chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, asking him to endeavor to enhance the Armed Forces' defense and security capabilities by using the capacities of elites and experts.

He also praised former Deputy Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Ataollah Salehi for his efforts.

In a separate degree, Brigadier General Gholamreza Soleimani was appointed by Ayatollah Khamenei as the commander of Basij forces.

He also lauded the former Basij Comamnder, Brigadier General Gholamhossein Gheibparvar, for his efforts during his tenure.

EA