Former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Mohsen Rezaei has been appointed secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, the president’s office announced on Sunday. President Masoud Pezeshkian issued the decree after the resignation and reassignment of outgoing secretary Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, according to a presidential communications official.

Shortly before the announcement, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appointed Rezaei as his representative to the council. The appointment cited Rezaei’s role and experience during the Iran-Iraq war from 1980 to 1988. Rezaei previously led the IRGC for an extended period and is currently a member of Iran’s Expediency Discernment Council.

The council helps settle disagreements between Iran’s parliament and the Guardian Council. The Guardian Council reviews legislation and vets candidates for public office. As part of the leadership changes, Khamenei appointed Zolghadr as his political adviser.