Iran President Denies Resignation Rumors Amid Political Strife

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has forcefully refuted persistent rumors that he has repeatedly threatened to resign, a move seen as an attempt to quell internal political friction. The denial comes at a critical juncture as Western nations, including the U.S. and European countries, are actively seeking an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for oil transport.

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If I wanted to resign, I would announce it officially. I will not resign, I will stay at my post.

Reports circulating in Iranian media, allegedly originating from Mohammad Bagher Kharazi, a relative of the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, claimed Pezeshkian was frustrated by being excluded from decision-making circles and had threatened to step down multiple times. The Supreme Leader's office, however, issued a statement on August 4th, labeling these claims as "baseless and completely untrue."

Pezeshkian, in a televised interview marking his second anniversary in office, asserted his commitment to his position, stating, "If I wanted to resign, I would announce it officially. I will not resign, I will stay at my post." He also addressed claims about the number of casualties during January protests, refuting a figure of 30,000 deaths as unsubstantiated. The interview appeared aimed at countering perceptions of weakness or marginalization by hardline factions within the government.

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baseless and completely untrue

The controversy highlights deep strategic divisions within Iran regarding negotiations with the United States. While Pezeshkian has signaled a willingness to build on a June understanding with the U.S., conservative elements, including the Assembly of Experts, have dismissed hopes of agreement as "futile" and "unforgivable betrayal," warning against trusting the U.S. government.

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I must strive to force the enemy to abide by the agreements it has signed.