Iran’s New Supreme Leader Receives Elite Protection Following Father’s Assassination
Iran has assigned an elite counterterrorism unit to protect its newly appointed Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. This decision comes after the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a U.S.-Israel strike on a Tehran facility on February 28.
The special force, known as NOPO, was created to handle high-stakes situations, including hostage rescue missions. Following the death of the elder Khamenei, it is now tasked with safeguarding Mojtaba Khamenei, according to Ali Safavi from the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI).
While NOPO was initially formed in 1991, its primary focus has included dealing with internal security issues and suppressing protests. With the Khamenei family’s history of leadership, the new Supreme Leader was voted in by Iran’s Assembly of Experts on March 8, 2026.
Despite the ongoing tensions with the U.S. and Israel, little has been heard from Mojtaba Khamenei since taking office. Reports from Iranian state media suggest that he sustained injuries during the conflict, although these claims remain unconfirmed.
The designation “NOPO” stands for Nirouyeh Vijeh Pasdaran Velayat, meaning Special Force to Protect the Supreme Leader. This force operates under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) but distinguishes itself through specialized capabilities. It consists of six brigades, primarily stationed in Tehran, with additional bases in Mashhad and Isfahan.
According to Safavi, members of NOPO are known for their lethal skills and loyalty to the Supreme Leader. Their role has extended beyond protection, as they also partake in government measures aimed at quelling public discontent during times of unrest.
In recent days, NOPO has been actively involved in suppressing protests and ensuring security around Iran’s prisons, where political detainees are held. This heightened activity followed a bombing near Mahabad Prison that triggered unrest among inmates.
Reports indicate that NOPO has taken control of notable prisons, like Evin Prison in Tehran, amid rising tensions. The U.S. Treasury previously sanctioned NOPO in 2021 for alleged human rights abuses against Iranians.
As Iran moves forward under the new leadership, the implications for its governance and public stability remain uncertain.
