The sudden death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has triggered a dramatic shift in Iran’s security posture, with an elite counterterrorism unit now dedicated to protecting his son and newly appointed successor, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.
Known as NOPO – the Special Force to Protect the Supreme Leader – this black-clad unit was originally formed in 1991, built around the 28th Ruhollah Division. While historically tasked with hostage rescue, its primary focus shifted to safeguarding the elder Khamenei, a responsibility he entrusted to them above all other security forces.
The urgency of this protection stems from the circumstances surrounding Khamenei’s death: a strike on a Tehran compound during a period of escalating conflict with the U.S. and Israel, an event known as Operation Epic Fury. The loss of the Supreme Leader has plunged the nation into a precarious moment, demanding unwavering security for his replacement.
Mojtaba Khamenei’s ascension to the role of Supreme Leader on March 8th, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for the Islamic Republic. However, his silence since the start of the ongoing war has fueled speculation, while unconfirmed reports suggest he sustained injuries during recent fighting.
NOPO’s structure is highly concentrated, comprising just six brigades strategically positioned across Iran – four in Tehran, and one each in Mashhad and Isfahan. Those familiar with the unit describe it as significantly more lethal and ruthlessly efficient than the broader Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Loyalty within NOPO is absolute, directed solely towards the Supreme Leader. This unwavering allegiance, coupled with advanced training and superior equipment, makes it a formidable force. Even the recent assassination attempt on the elder Khamenei didn’t cripple the unit, despite potential casualties among its members.
Beyond personal protection, NOPO has a documented history of internal security operations, frequently deployed to quell dissent and suppress protests. This darker side of the unit was starkly revealed during the January uprising, where they were reportedly involved in directly opening fire on demonstrators.
Currently, hundreds of NOPO members are heavily deployed around Iranian prisons, particularly those holding political detainees. Recent unrest at Ghezel Hesar Prison, sparked by a bombing near Mahabad Prison and demands for release during wartime, were met with tear gas and a heavy security presence.
The unit has even taken direct control of facilities like Evin Prison in Tehran, as regular prison staff fled amidst the intensifying conflict. This demonstrates a willingness to assume complete authority during times of crisis, solidifying their role as the regime’s ultimate security apparatus.
International scrutiny has fallen upon NOPO, with the U.S. Treasury Department imposing sanctions in 2021 for its involvement in “serious human rights abuses.” Despite this, the unit remains fully operational, a powerful and unwavering force protecting the new Supreme Leader and the foundations of the Islamic Republic.
