Ahmad Vahidi, born Vahid Shahcheraghi in Shiraz on 27 June 1958, currently commands the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. A career military officer and politician, he has held significant ministerial portfolios and leadership roles within the Iranian government, including service as Minister of Defense and Minister of Interior, while navigating extensive international sanctions and criminal allegations.
Military Career and Leadership
Vahidi joined the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in 1979. By 1981, he served as deputy to commander Mohsen Rezaee for intelligence affairs and led the Balaal base. In 1983, he became part of the Quds Force, the extraterritorial unit specializing in unconventional warfare and intelligence. He led the Quds Force from 1988 until 1998. Following the 2025 Israeli strikes, he became temporary chief of the IRGC, serving as deputy commander until his appointment as Commander-in-Chief on 1 March 2026.
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In 2005, Vahidi became deputy minister of defense. In 2009, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad appointed him Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, a position he held until 15 August 2013 with 79.3% parliamentary approval. Later, under President Ebrahim Raisi, he served as Interior Minister from 2021 to 2024. Between 2016 and 2021, he presided over the Supreme National Defense University.
International Legal Controversies
Argentina’s highest court has formally accused Vahidi of involvement in the 1994 AMIA Jewish Community center bombing in Buenos Aires, which resulted in 85 deaths. Interpol maintains a red notice for his arrest. Additionally, the United States and the European Union have sanctioned him for alleged nuclear proliferation, terrorism involvement, and human rights violations during the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests, citing his oversight of the Police Command of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Fast facts
- Born: 27 June 1958, Shiraz
- Military Rank: Brigadier General
- Education: Doctorate in strategic studies, Imam Sadiq University
- Minister of Defense: 2009-2013
- Minister of Interior: 2021-2024
- Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC: Since 2026
- Religion: Shia Islam
Questions readers ask
What is Ahmad Vahidi's current military role?
He has served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps since 1 March 2026.
Why is Ahmad Vahidi subject to an Interpol red notice?
He is wanted for his alleged role in the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community center in Buenos Aires.
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