A Legacy of Revolutionary Service: The Passing of General Alireza Afshar
Iran is mourning the loss of a prominent military and political figure, General Alireza Afshar, who passed away due to a heart condition. A key organizer during the Sacred Defense era and a lifelong servant of the nation, his death marks the end of a significant chapter in the country’s contemporary history.
A Pillar of the Sacred Defense
General Afshar’s most notable contribution was his central role during the imposed war, where he served as the Chief of Staff of the Central Headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He also held the critical position of spokesman for the IRGC, acting as a key public voice during that pivotal period. His leadership continued post-war as he commanded the Basij Resistance Force for nearly a decade, from 1989 to 1997, shaping one of the nation’s most important grassroots institutions.
A Lifelong Dedication to the Revolution
General Afshar’s commitment to the Islamic Republic began long before its victory. Born in Mashhad in 1951, he was politically active against the former regime, which led to his arrest and a four-month imprisonment by the SAVAK. He was among the devoted students following the line of Imam Khomeini and participated in the pivotal event of the U.S. Den of Espionage takeover.
His service extended far beyond the battlefield. His career was marked by a series of high-level appointments, including membership in the Central Council of Jihad-e Sazandagi, the presidency of Imam Hossein University, and the leadership of the Foundation for the Preservation and Publication of Sacred Defense Works. He also served the nation as the Deputy Minister of Interior for Political and Social Affairs.
General Afshar’s passing is a profound loss, remembered for a lifetime of unwavering dedication across military, political, and cultural spheres in service to the Islamic Republic of Iran.