Abbas Araghchi Faces Dismissal Amid Turmoil in Iran’s Leadership

“Pezeshkian has told close associates that he will dismiss Araghchi if such conduct continues,” said a source familiar with the situation. Iran’s leadership is in turmoil as efforts to dismiss Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi intensify amid accusations of his alignment with the Revolutionary Guard. President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf are seeking Araghchi’s ouster over his handling of US negotiations.

Araghchi faces criticism for aligning too closely with Revolutionary Guard Commander Ahmad Vahidi. Pezeshkian believes Araghchi has acted more like an aide to Vahidi than a cabinet minister. This frustration escalated when Araghchi coordinated directly with Vahidi without informing the president.

The internal rifts within Iran’s leadership are not new. Ghalibaf resigned as head of the negotiating team after being reprimanded for including nuclear discussions in talks with the United States. Divisions are evident, especially among lawmakers aligned with hardline politician Saeed Jalili, who have refused to support the negotiating team.

On April 24, Araghchi traveled alone to Islamabad to deliver Tehran’s proposal to Pakistani officials. However, the United States president rejected this proposal shortly after its delivery. The Revolutionary Guards reportedly control key managerial positions due to the critical situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and regional stability.

Yet, cooperation between Iran and Russia continues to expand amid regional uncertainty. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described a recent meeting as constructive and practical, indicating ongoing diplomatic engagement despite internal strife.

Araghchi stated that “the United States failed to achieve its objectives in the recent conflict with Iran.” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment within Iranian leadership regarding negotiations with the United States and highlight ongoing tensions.