A hardline general wanted by Interpol emerges as a key player in Iran war

Key Points:

• Brig. Gen. Ahmad Vahidi, sanctioned by the US and wanted by Interpol, has become commander-in-chief of Iran’s IRGC following the death of his predecessor in US-Israeli strikes, playing a key role in shaping Tehran’s hardline stance amid fragile war negotiations.
• Vahidi is known for his radical opposition to compromise with Washington and has been influential in escalating Iran’s demands, while also overseeing strategic moves like disrupting traffic at a critical oil checkpoint.
• US President Donald Trump has threatened renewed military action against Iran if talks fail, while Vahidi has warned of devastating retaliatory strikes should Iran face further aggression.
• Despite being less visible publicly, Vahidi wields significant behind-the-scenes power in Iran’s leadership, advocating for uncompromising policies and maintaining a hardline approach to nuclear enrichment and negotiations.
• Vahidi’s controversial past includes alleged involvement in a 1994 bombing in Argentina, leadership roles in the IRGC and Quds Force, and sanctions for his role in violently suppressing domestic protests, marking him as a key, formidable figure in Iran’s current power structure.