Iran's Moderate Administration Faces Turmoil as Conservatives Tighten Grip

Hard-liners in Iran have successfully removed key figures from President Masoud Pezeshkian's government, exacerbating challenges such as economic instability and growing international tensions, raising concerns about the future of his moderate administration.

Iran's political landscape is becoming increasingly unstable following the removal of two significant officials from President Masoud Pezeshkian's administration. With conservatives exerting control over Parliament and the judiciary, the recent ousting of Finance Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati and former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif from key roles has raised serious questions regarding Pezeshkian's ability to govern effectively amidst soaring inflation, energy shortages, and a plummeting currency value.

The backdrop to these developments is a broader context of internal and external challenges. Economically, Iran is grappling with severe inflation, leading to widespread discontent. Geopolitically, the situation has worsened with the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, which is anticipated to lead to a more aggressive American stance towards Iran. This has further strained diplomatic efforts and negotiations with the West, leaving Pezeshkian's government struggling to navigate through a precarious environment.

In a recent speech before Parliament, Pezeshkian expressed his frustration over the obstacles his administration has faced since taking office. He described a struggle not only against external adversaries but also against internal resistance that hampers meaningful progress. "From the day we took over the government, we were confronted with deficiencies in energy, water and power," Pezeshkian lamented, underscoring the extensive governmental obligations that remain unmet.

The political strategy employed by the conservative factions that orchestrated the impeachments raises critical insights into Iran's theocratic structure, which balances elected positions with powerful unelected bodies influenced by religious leaders. Such dynamics often lead to low electoral participation and can obstruct governmental plans.

As Pezeshkian contends with this political crisis, observers are left wondering about the trajectory of moderate governance in Iran and the potential implications for its citizens facing dire economic conditions.