TEHRAN — Iran has belatedly confirmed the replacement of a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander, fueling speculation about deeper shifts within the elite force after its June war with Israel.

Iranian media reported this week that Brig. Gen. Hojjatollah Qoreishi, a former deputy defense minister, was appointed as the IRGC's coordinating deputy chief. The move ended weeks of rumors surrounding the fate of Brig. Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, a veteran figure known for his hard-line stance against Reformists at home and his prominent role in the Basij paramilitary force. According to the IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency, the appointment was made by IRGC Commander in Chief Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour. 

Naqdi, who had served in the post during the 12-day war with Israel earlier this year, has reportedly been reassigned as a senior adviser to the IRGC chief.

While the official confirmation appeared routine, its timing, weeks after Iranian outlets had already referred to Qoreishi in the role, has raised questions about why the leadership delayed making the announcement. Pro-Reform outlet Khabar Online, which first broke the story in an exclusive report, said the change took place a while ago, also noting the absence of a public handover ceremony typical of such replacements.