Ali Shamkhani, a long-serving Iranian security official and military officer, died on 28 February 2026 during a targeted airstrike in Tehran. Over a career spanning four decades, he held significant positions within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Iranian cabinet, ultimately serving as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council until his departure in 2023.
Military and Ministerial Career
Born in 1955 in Ahvaz, Shamkhani studied engineering at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz before joining the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He held command roles in the IRGC Ground Force and, between 1990 and 1997, the IRGC Navy. Concurrently, he served as Minister of Revolutionary Guards in 1988. He later moved to the civilian administration, serving as Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics from 1997 to 2005 under President Mohammad Khatami. His military rank reached vice admiral.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Security Policy and Strategic Roles
In 2013, Shamkhani was appointed secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, an office he held for nearly a decade. During this tenure, he acted as a military advisor to the supreme leader of Iran. He became a central figure in international negotiations, including discussions with the United States regarding nuclear policy. Following his 2023 resignation, he transitioned to the Expediency Discernment Council.
Sanctions and Economic Interests
In 2020, the United States Department of the Treasury identified the Admiral global shipping network, alleging it was founded by Shamkhani and operated by his sons to circumvent sanctions. The network reportedly managed petroleum and military cargo shipments. Shamkhani faced public scrutiny regarding his family's wealth and their involvement in the shipping industry, alongside accusations concerning his political associations.
Final Months
During the Twelve-Day War in 2025, Shamkhani survived an initial airstrike that caused severe injuries. Following his recovery, he served as secretary of the Iranian Defence Council. He remained an outspoken figure regarding national defense strategies until his death during a strike on an Iranian Defence Council meeting in February 2026. He is buried at Imamzadeh Saleh.
Fast facts
- Born: 29 September 1955, Ahvaz
- Died: 28 February 2026, Tehran
- Education: Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, AJA University of Command and Staff
- Military Rank: Vice admiral
- Key Position: Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (2013-2023)
- Awards: Order of King Abdulaziz al Saud, Order of Fath (1st and 2nd class)
- Religion: Shia Islam
- Languages: English, Persian, Arabic
Questions readers ask
What official positions did Ali Shamkhani hold?
He served as Minister of Defense, Minister of Revolutionary Guards, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and Commander of the IRGC Navy.
How did Ali Shamkhani die?
He was killed in a targeted airstrike on 28 February 2026 during the Iran war.
