Aziz Nasirzadeh occupied a series of senior military positions in Iran, culminating in his tenure as Minister of Defense from 2024 until his death in 2026. A trained F-14 Tomcat pilot who began his service in 1982, he moved through the ranks of the Air Force and the Joint Staff before overseeing national defense logistics during a period of intense regional conflict.
Early Career and Training
Born in 1964 in Sarab, Nasirzadeh completed his secondary education in Tehran. He entered military service in 1982. Following graduation from the Air Force Academy, he pursued specialized aviation training both within Iran and in Pakistan. He ultimately qualified as an F-14 pilot and joined a tactical squadron, serving during the Iran–Iraq War, although he did not participate in direct combat operations.
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Nasirzadeh held various staff and command roles within the Air Force over several decades. He served as the commander of the Iranian Air Force from August 2018 to September 2021. In September 2021, he transitioned to the role of Deputy Chief of Staff for the Iranian Armed Forces, a position he occupied until August 2024. This appointment involved broader responsibilities regarding national security planning and defense coordination.
Defense Ministry and Regional Security
Appointed Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics in August 2024, Nasirzadeh managed Iran's military infrastructure and procurement. His duties included chairing the National Organization for Passive Defense, which aimed to secure critical civilian and nuclear facilities. His foreign policy portfolio featured defense cooperation agreements with Armenia and joint military exercises with Azerbaijan intended to limit the regional influence of external powers.
Public Statements and Death
During his term as Minister, Nasirzadeh publicly discussed Iran's military capabilities, including testing a missile equipped with a two-ton warhead. In 2025, he stated that Iran would target regional U.S. bases if the country faced military aggression. On 28 February 2026, he was killed in Tehran by the Israel Defense Forces during the 2026 Iran war, an event confirmed by state media channels.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Sarab, Iran
- Died: 28 February 2026, Tehran
- Military Rank: Brigadier General
- Minister of Defense: 2024–2026
- Air Force Commander: 2018–2021
- Education: Air Force Academy
Questions readers ask
What was Aziz Nasirzadeh's primary role in the Iranian Air Force?
He was a certified F-14 Tomcat pilot who eventually served as the commander of the Iranian Air Force from 2018 to 2021.
How did Aziz Nasirzadeh die?
He was killed by the Israel Defense Forces on 28 February 2026 during the 2026 Iran war.
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