Formation of a National Defense Council in Iran After Rising Tensions with Israel

Iran announced last night, Sunday, the establishment of a new National Defense Council aimed at enhancing its military and security capabilities following the recent war it experienced with Israel, according to Iranian state television.

The television reported that "the Supreme National Security Council approved the creation of the National Defense Council," which will be overseen by the President and will include leaders of the armed forces and officials from the relevant defense and security ministries.

This announcement comes in the wake of the war launched by Israel against Iran on June 13, which lasted 12 days, supported by the United States, with the declared aim of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a claim that Tehran denies, asserting its right to develop a peaceful nuclear program.

The war saw Israel targeting nuclear and military facilities in Iran, resulting in the deaths of senior military officials and prominent scientists in the Iranian nuclear program.

Tehran responded by launching missiles and drones at targets in Israel, as well as targeting the largest American base in the Middle East located in Qatar.

On June 22, the United States launched strikes on Iranian underground nuclear sites in Fordow, in addition to facilities in Isfahan and Natanz. After 12 days of fighting, a ceasefire came into effect on June 24.

Iranian authorities announced that more than a thousand people were killed during the war, while Israel reported 28 fatalities.

The new council, according to Iranian television, will centrally study defense plans and work to enhance the capabilities of the armed forces to ensure national security in the face of future threats.