Tehran officials denied reports that President Masoud Pezeshkian resigned following an alleged power struggle with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps [1].
The denial comes amid speculation regarding the internal stability of the Iranian government and the influence of the military over national decision-making. If the reports were true, it would signal a significant shift in the balance of power within the Islamic Republic.
Reports circulated this week suggesting that Pezeshkian had stepped down because he was excluded from key decision-making processes [1]. These reports specifically linked the tension to the context of Iran's ongoing war efforts and the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in directing state policy [1].
Tehran dismissed these accounts as "rumour mongering" [1]. A spokesperson for the government said the claims were "wishful thinking in place of reality" [1].
The government did not provide further details regarding the origin of the rumors or the specific nature of the alleged conflict. However, the swift denial suggests a priority to project an image of unity between the presidency and the military establishment [1].
Internal friction between reformist-leaning administrations and the hardline IRGC has historically characterized Iranian politics. The IRGC maintains significant control over security and foreign policy, often creating a parallel power structure that can overshadow the civilian government [2].
President Pezeshkian has previously faced pressure from hardliners regarding his approach to governance and international relations [2]. The current denial aims to quell speculation that this pressure had reached a breaking point resulting in a resignation.
“Tehran dismissed these accounts as "rumour mongering"”
The denial highlights the persistent tension between Iran's elected presidency and the unelected military power of the IRGC. By labeling reports of a resignation as 'wishful thinking,' Tehran is attempting to neutralize a narrative of instability that could be exploited by foreign adversaries or domestic opposition, while reaffirming that the IRGC remains the dominant force in security matters.
