Major Controversies Surrounding Ali Shamkhani: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Ali Shamkhani.

Ali Shamkhani is an Iranian naval officer and politician. He held the key position of secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran from 2013 to 2023. Prior to that, he commanded both the IRGC Navy and the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy. He currently serves on the Expediency Discernment Council and as a political advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader since 2023. Shamkhani also played a role in the Iran–United States negotiations related to the nuclear agreement.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

January 1978: Assassination Accusation by Mehrzad Boroujerdi

In January 1978, Malek Mohammad Boroujerdi was assassinated in Ahvaz, and Mehrzad Boroujerdi accused Ali Shamkhani of being involved in the assassination. Note that the month is based on allegation, and it is possible that the assassination occured in December.

December 1978: Murder of Malek Boroujerdi

In December 1978, Malek Boroujerdi, director of the state-owned Iranian National Oil Company, was murdered by gunmen in Ahvaz. Allegations later surfaced in 2025, tying the murder to Ali Shamkhani.

January 2020: US State Department Extends Sanctions to Shamkhani

In January 2020, the US State Department extended its sanctions to Ali Shamkhani and others under Executive Order 13876 for their involvement in ballistic missile strikes. The sanctions will continue until Iran ends its terrorist support.

February 2020: US Treasury Department Extends Sanctions to Shamkhani

In February 2020, the US Treasury Department extended its sanctions to Ali Shamkhani and others following the disqualification of electoral candidates by Iran's Guardian Council.

July 2020: US Treasury Announces Sanctions Against Admiral Global Shipping Network

In July 2020, the US Department of the Treasury announced sanctions targeting the Admiral global shipping network, believed to have been founded by Ali Shamkhani and controlled by his sons. This network allegedly assisted in moving Iranian and Russian petroleum and other cargo, generating substantial profits for the Iranian regime and the Shamkhani family. The shipments also allegedly included Iranian missiles, drone parts and other military goods, sent to Russia in exchange for petroleum.

2020: Blocked revival of the nuclear agreement

In 2020, Ali Shamkhani was reported to have blocked the revival of the nuclear agreement.

2022: Cracking Down on Hijab Protests

In 2022, Ali Shamkhani was criticised for violently cracking down on the Hijab protests, while at the same time his daughter was seen wearing revealing dresses at her wedding.

May 2023: Resignation as Top Security Official

In May 2023, Ali Shamkhani resigned as the country's top security official. Reports suggest this followed scrutiny over his ties with a British spy and alleged involvement with a cartel engaged in kidnapping and drug trafficking.

October 2025: Wedding Video Leak

In October 2025, a leaked wedding video of Ali Shamkhani's daughter Setayesh (Fatemeh) caused controversy and criticism due to perceived hypocrisy and ostentation, given Shamkhani's history of enforcing Islamic rules on women and cracking down on Hijab protests. The event was reportedly a $20,000 affair.

October 2025: Allegations Regarding Murder of Malek Boroujerdi

In October 2025, allegations surfaced regarding Ali Shamkhani's involvement in the December 1978 murder of Malek Boroujerdi, director of the state-owned Iranian National Oil Company. Boroujerdi's son, Mehrzad, accused Shamkhani and Mohsen Razaei of the assassination.