Brigadier General Ali Jahanshahi Appointed New Commander of Iran's Army Ground Forces

Leadership Transition in Iran's Army Ground Forces

Brigadier General Ali Jahanshahi has been appointed as the new commander of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Ground Forces, a significant leadership change reported on Saturday, November 22, 2025. He succeeds Brigadier General Kioumars Heydari, who had held the position for more than seven years.

The appointment sees Jahanshahi taking charge of Iran's land-based military operations and training programs, with a mandate to enhance the army's operational readiness and effectiveness.

Jahanshahi's Background and Strategic Vision

Brigadier General Jahanshahi brings extensive military experience to his new role. His previous positions include commanding the 77th Thamen Al-Aemeh Division, serving as the Coordinating Deputy of the Army Ground Forces, and holding the position of Deputy for Evaluation at the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters.

In his initial public statements, General Jahanshahi underscored the forces' preparedness to counter potential enemy threats. He highlighted the unit's skilled personnel, modernized equipment, and insights gained from past conflicts as crucial pillars of its defensive strength. He stated, 'The Ground Forces, with competent, faithful, and self‑sacrificing personnel, updated equipment, and the invaluable experience of veterans, are ready to respond to any possible threats from our enemies.'

Jahanshahi outlined a strategic focus based on five key directives from Leader Sayyed Ali Khamenei, aiming to boost:

• Mobility
• Efficiency
• Human resources
• Weaponry

These directives are intended to address evolving security challenges. He also emphasized the increasing importance of technology, noting that scientific elites, knowledge-based companies, and emerging fields like artificial intelligence are crucial for enhancing combat readiness. Significant advancements in drone warfare and air defense capabilities were also reported, contributing to a more mobile and agile land army.

Tenure of Outgoing Commander Heydari

Brigadier General Kioumars Heydari, also referred to as Major General Kiumars Heidari, had commanded the Army Ground Forces since his appointment in November 2016. During his tenure, the Army Ground Forces underwent significant modernization efforts, with Heydari emphasizing the transformation into a 'mobile, offensive, and rapid reaction force.' He also highlighted investments in artificial intelligence and drone technology.

Heydari's command saw the force involved in suppressing protests, notably in November 2019 and 2022, which led to him being placed on sanctions lists by the United States, European Union, and the United Kingdom.