Iran’s Zarif Resigns: Political Pressures and Personal Attacks Prompt Departure

Iran’s Vice-President for Strategic Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, resigned citing unprecedented pressure and personal attacks. He hopes his removal will clear paths for the government. His decision follows internal challenges and political tensions, including the dismissal of Finance Minister Abdul Nasser Hemmati, with uncertainties about subsequent governmental responses.

Iran’s Vice-President for Strategic Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, has announced his resignation, citing intense pressure and slander faced in recent months. In a post on X, Zarif expressed his hope that his departure would help remove obstacles impeding the people’s will and the government’s success. He stated that he had held discussions with Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, the head of Iran’s judiciary, who suggested he return to academia as a solution to the current pressures. Zarif accepted this advice, stressing his commitment to serving Iran and enduring personal attacks over his four-decade career for the sake of the nation’s interests.

In his statement, Zarif lamented the severe insults and threats directed at him and his family over the past six months, describing this period as one of the most challenging in his political career. He also reflected on internal challenges within the government during his time in office, characterizing his experience as “bitter.” He sought forgiveness for any shortcomings during his vice presidency while expressing ongoing support for President Pezeshkian and his administration.

Further information from Fars News Agency indicated that Zarif’s resignation was influenced by the recent dismissal of Finance Minister Abdul Nasser Hemmati. As of now, the Iranian government has not released an official statement regarding the resignation, leaving uncertainty around whether Pezeshkian will accept Zarif’s departure or try to persuade him to remain in a different role. Zarif previously resigned in 2024.

Zarif, who served as Iran’s foreign minister from 2013 to 2021 under former President Hassan Rouhani, played a pivotal role in negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal aimed at alleviating sanctions on Iran in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear activities. As a significant figure within Iran’s reformist faction, he was also instrumental in President Pezeshkian’s election campaign.

Zarif’s resignation reflects the mounting pressures within Iran’s government and the political landscape. His departure highlights issues of personal attacks and internal political strife. The connection between his resignation and other recent political changes, such as the dismissal of Finance Minister Hemmati, further illustrates the volatile nature of Iranian politics. Moving forward, it remains uncertain how this will affect the government’s stability and future policies.

Original Source: shafaq.com