Iran's Army Chief Pledges Allegiance to Mojtaba Khamenei, Vows Revenge Against Israel and U.S.

The Iranian military establishment has signaled a unified front behind the transition of power to Mojtaba Khamenei. According to material reviewed by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk on Sunday, the Commander of the Iranian Army joined other high-ranking officials—including IRGC Quds Force Commander Ismail Qaani and the national Police Chief—in a collective pledge of allegiance. This move is seen as a critical step in stabilizing the regime following the death of Ali Khamenei in June 2026. ### Escalation of Retaliatory Rhetoric The joint letter issued by the commanders uses highly aggressive language, stating that "there will be no cure for the pain except through revenge against the murderers of the martyred leader." The explicit naming of Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump as targets for physical retaliation marks a significant escalation in the regime's public discourse. Iranian military sources emphasized that they will "not relent" and will continue to pursue those involved until they are destroyed. ### Consolidation Under Mojtaba Khamenei This public display of unity serves to consolidate Mojtaba Khamenei's authority over both the regular army and the ideological paramilitary forces of the IRGC. The transition comes amid a period of heightened regional tension and internal regime shifts. By securing the public backing of the traditional military alongside the Quds Force, the new Supreme Leader is demonstrating control over the state's primary mechanisms of force. Analysts note that the focus on external enemies—specifically Israel and the United States—is being utilized as a primary tool to maintain internal cohesion during this sensitive leadership transition.