This internal conflict, marked by strategic dismissals and public attacks, reflects the deepening rift between hardliners and reformists within Iran’s political landscape. The latest move in this ongoing power play involves the marginalization of key figures associated with Pezeshkian.
Following the resignation of Mohammad-Javad Zarif, a close ally of Pezeshkian, state media reported that other key figures linked to the administration are under scrutiny. Among them, Vahid Aref, son of Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref, has been criticized for allegedly holding German citizenship, which under Iranian law disqualifies him from sensitive government positions.
#Iranian Regime’s Factions Erupt in Conflict Over Pezeshkian’s Controversial Cabinet Choiceshttps://t.co/JDqRZ8PHIB
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) August 14, 2024
Similarly, Mohammad-Jafar Ghaempanah’s son is also said to be residing in Europe, raising questions about his role in the government. The conservative newspaper Kayhan has further amplified the pressure on Pezeshkian, attacking two of his proposed ministers, Mohammad Reza Zafarghandi and Ahmad Meidari, labeling them as “seditious” and untrustworthy. This reflects a broader effort by Khamenei’s allies to paint Pezeshkian’s administration as unfit for governance.
Criticism has not only come from Khamenei’s camp but also from within the so-called “reformist” faction. Reformists, who have been increasingly marginalized, have expressed dissatisfaction with Pezeshkian’s cabinet choices, arguing that the administration is too cooperative and lacks the national consensus necessary to address Iran’s pressing issues.
Pezeshkian Cabinet Triggers New Battlefront in #Iran’s Factional Power Strugglehttps://t.co/Vyh8UQTz0u pic.twitter.com/Xox0HYuuze
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) August 13, 2024
This internal dissent has been highlighted by publications such as Donya-e-Eqtesad, which pointed to the forced resignation of Zarif as a significant blow to Pezeshkian’s leadership. The tension within Pezeshkian’s administration is palpable, with even proposed ministers facing harsh criticism.
Mohsen Zanganeh, a member of the parliamentary Budget and Planning Commission, lambasted Abdolnaser Hemmati, Pezeshkian’s nominee for Minister of Economy, for his role in Iran’s severe inflation crisis, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the new government. Amid these conflicts, former President Mohammad Khatami attempted to defuse the situation, urging for restraint and warning against premature judgments.
However, as the political infighting intensifies, the outlook for Pezeshkian’s administration remains grim, with experts predicting a turbulent future that could lead to his political downfall.
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