Accra:Iran's parliament has approved Mehrdad Akhlaqi Ketabchi as the country's new defense minister. The state broadcaster IRIB reported that Akhlaqi received 237 votes in favor and 15 against, with no abstentions, during a parliamentary session conducted via video conference.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mehrdad Akhlaqi replaces Aziz Nasirzadeh, who was killed in US-Israeli attacks on February 28. Majid Ebn al-Reza had been serving as the acting defense minister following Nasirzadeh's death.

In his first comments after the approval, Akhlaqi stated that Iran had implemented measures to counter the potential use of the US GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb. He warned that US President Donald Trump should be cautious about the safety of American forces in the region, suggesting that any US attack would result in significant casualties.

Akhlaqi also emphasized that Iran's preparations have deterred Washington from using the bomb and noted that the situation could escalate if US threats were realized. He pledged that Iran would deliver a "surprising and extensive" response if attacked again by the US and Israel.

Addressing the parliament, Akhlaqi mentioned that he has been on an "assassination list" for 35 years and promised to enhance Iran's "resistance front." His priorities include expanding defense production, boosting research, and adapting the ministry to current security threats. Akhlaqi, a veteran of the Defense Ministry, previously led Iran's Aerospace Industries Organization and has faced US sanctions for his role in missile-related activities.