Iran establishes a defense council following military conflict with Israel
In the aftermath of a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, which had the backing of the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran has announced the formation of the National Defense Council. The announcement, made by Iranian state television, marks a significant shift in the country's defense and national security strategy.
The National Defense Council, chaired by President Masoud Pezeshkian, is a centralized body comprising key figures such as the speaker of Parliament, the head of the judiciary, senior military commanders from all branches, and likely the defense, intelligence, and foreign ministers. The council's primary purpose is to centralize and speed up defense decision-making, enhance coordination, and improve the combat readiness of Iran's Armed Forces for future conflicts or national emergencies. In essence, the council serves as a standing wartime command center under the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC).
The formation of the National Defense Council reflects Tehran's concern over rapid military threats and the necessity of a more agile, centralized command structure for defense purposes. The council aims to overcome strategic and operational delays witnessed during the recent conflict by enabling rapid and decisive command during crises, minimizing risks associated with slower, broader consultative bodies like the SNSC itself.
The details of these strengthened capabilities were not specified in the state media report. However, it is clear that the council's creation is a response to bolster Iran's military capabilities in the face of external threats. The conflict, which began on June 13, saw Israel launching surprise attacks on Iranian military, nuclear sites, official buildings, and scientists linked to Iran's nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone strikes on Israel and targeted the largest U.S. base in the Middle East in Qatar.
The conflict resulted in more than a thousand casualties in Iran, according to Iranian authorities, while Israel reported 28 deaths during the same period. The exact number of casualties on the Israeli side is not publicly available.
The National Defense Council will play a pivotal role in reviewing defense plans and centralizing the strengthening of the armed forces' capabilities. The council's formation is a testament to Iran's resolve to strengthen its defense and national security structures in response to external threats.
Sources:
- Tehran Times
- ABC News
- Iran International
- Iran International
- Understanding War
- The formation of the National Defense Council, as reported by various general news outlets such as Tehran Times, ABC News, Iran International, and Understanding War, suggests Iran's increasing focus on strengthening its defense capabilities in light of war-and-conflicts and political tensions.
- The National Defense Council, comprising key political and military figures in Iran, aims to enhance its defense strategies and combat readiness in politics and war-and-conflicts situations, as per reports from sources like Iran International and Tehran Times.
