Iran's Defense Minister Targeted in Airstrikes: Key Insights

Recent airstrikes in Iran have reportedly targeted Major General Amir Hatami, the country's defense minister. While the claims remain unverified, the implications of these strikes are significant given Hatami's prominent role in Iran's military. Appointed by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Hatami has a rich military background and has been a key figure in Iran's defense strategy. This article delves into his career, the context of the airstrikes, and the potential impact on regional stability. Discover more about this critical situation and its ramifications.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 14:17 IST

Overview of Recent Airstrikes in Iran

Recent reports from Iranian and regional news outlets indicate that Major General Amir Hatami, Iran's defense minister, was among those affected by the initial airstrikes in the country. These assertions remain unverified by independent sources. Neither the Iranian government nor the Israeli military has confirmed whether General Hatami was specifically targeted. Given his prominent position in Iran's military hierarchy, he would be a crucial figure in any efforts to disrupt the nation's command structure.

On Saturday, the United States and Israel conducted airstrikes on Iran, leading to significant explosions in Tehran. Residents reported seeing smoke rising from an area that includes the presidential palace and the National Security Council. The specific targets of these strikes have not been disclosed.

Profile of Major General Amir Hatami

Who is Major General Amir Hatami?

Major General Amir Hatami was appointed as the commander-in-chief of Iran's Army in June 2025 by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, succeeding Maj Gen Abdolrahim Mousavi, who was elevated to chief of staff of the armed forces following the assassination of Gen Mohammad Bagheri. This role placed Gen Hatami in charge of the regular Army, known as the Artesh, which is one of the two primary branches of Iran's military, alongside the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

On January 31, 2026, Hatami issued a stern warning to the United States and Israel amid escalating tensions, stating that Iran's armed forces were on "high alert" and that any "enemy mistake" could jeopardize their security and the stability of the broader region. His comments came as relations between Washington and Tehran soured over Iran's nuclear and missile programs.

Before his current role, Gen Hatami served as Iran's defense minister from 2017 to 2021 under President Hassan Rouhani, marking a significant shift as he was the first defense minister from the regular Army in over two decades, a position previously held by IRGC officers. During his tenure, he managed procurement and development initiatives related to Iran's missile and defense sectors, particularly during a time of extensive international sanctions.

Born in 1966 in Zanjan, Gen Hatami joined the Basij volunteer forces at the age of 14 during the Iran-Iraq War, participating in various operations throughout the eight-year conflict. His military career has been heavily influenced by this war, which continues to shape Iran's military leadership today.

Hatami has consistently advocated for enhancing Iran's missile and drone capabilities. As defense minister, he promoted a "missile-centric" defense strategy, overseeing the development of ballistic systems such as the Khorramshahr and Fateh missiles. In January 2026, in response to threats from the US, he asserted that Iran's nuclear expertise is both indigenous and enduring, stating that even if scientists or infrastructure were targeted, the technical knowledge "cannot be eliminated". Upon his appointment as Army chief, Khamenei commended Gen Hatami's "competence and experience" and called for a "transformative and revolutionary" approach. In addition to his command responsibilities, he acts as an adviser to the supreme leader on Army matters, highlighting his pivotal role in Iran's strategic planning.