Tehran: The year 2025 has started turbulently for Iran, marked by political upheaval and significant unrest. The initial months have seen the resignation of high-profile figures, impeachments, and heightened public dissatisfaction, revealing deep fractures within the country’s political system.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the resignation of Iran’s Vice President for Strategic Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, and the impeachment of Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati have underscored the severity of the internal crisis. Additionally, the mysterious assassination of two senior judges in Tehran’s Supreme Court signals escalating tensions within the government. These events highlight both personal political downfalls and critical moments shaping Iran’s political future. Public dissatisfaction, exacerbated by economic woes, adds another layer to the crisis, as demonstrated by large-scale protests during the 46th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and the government’s harsh response.
The assassination in the Supreme Court of judges Ali Razini and Mohammad Moghiseh by a court official, who then committed suicide, suggests internal government strife and power struggles. Political observers consider this as indicative of deeper conflicts within the ruling establishment. The government of President Masoud Pezeshkian is facing intense pressure, as hardliners systematically remove reformist figures, despite efforts to quell protests and internal disputes. The ongoing public dissatisfaction and political shifts suggest an inevitable new era for Iran.
Iran’s Vice President, Mohammad Javad Zarif, resigned on March 3, a move with significant implications for both domestic and foreign policy. Zarif, known for his role in the nuclear deal with the West, faced opposition within Iran for his pro-Western stance. On March 2, Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati was impeached in Parliament, reflective not only of economic challenges but also the political power struggle in the country, as hardliners seek to consolidate control over the reformist government.
Abdolnaser Hemmati, an economist and politician, served as Central Bank governor from 2018 to 2021 and was appointed as Economy Minister in 2024 before his impeachment. His removal is seen as an attempt by hardliners to assert dominance.
Researcher Mohammad Rahmanifar commented on the current Iranian government, labeling it as failed and highlighting President Pezeshkian’s rise to power despite previous political setbacks. Rahmanifar noted Iran’s strategic political decisions in anticipation of U.S. political dynamics, emphasizing Pezeshkian’s initial goals of engaging in dialogue with the West.
Zarif, a key architect of the 2015 Nuclear Deal, was a prominent diplomat advocating for open dialogue with the West, a stance that has sparked debates in Iran. His influence waned under President Ebrahim Raisi’s hardline administration, but he regained a significant role under Pezeshkian.
Pezeshkian’s recent remarks highlighted his administration’s initial intentions to negotiate with the U.S., signifying internal disagreements on foreign policy strategy. The impeachment of Hemmati and Zarif’s resignation are seen in this context of strained foreign relations and domestic policy challenges.
Hardliners in Iran, who control major political, economic, and security institutions, aim to maintain the country’s theocratic system and resist reforms or improved relations with the West. Their influence is evident in recent political developments, as they seek to preserve Iran’s theocratic governance structure amidst ongoing crises.