Iran's President Denies Resignation Rumors Amid Maritime Deal Pressure

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has forcefully denied reports that he threatened to resign, pushing back against claims of internal division and external pressure regarding a proposed deal for the Strait of Hormuz.

The proposed agreement, which the United States and Europe hope will be finalized soon, aims to reopen the vital maritime route. Under the draft proposal, merchant vessels would enter the Strait of Hormuz via a route close to Iran before exiting through waters bordering Iran and Oman. Oman is reportedly mediating the deal, though Muscat has expressed concerns about Iran potentially maintaining permanent dominance over the oil shipping lane.

Pezeshkian, speaking during a television interview marking two years in office, dismissed the resignation rumors as fabrications intended to sow discord within Iran. He stated, "If I wanted to resign, I would state it officially. I will not step down, I will continue to stand firm." He attributed the false claims to Mohammad Bagher Kharazi, who is related by marriage to Iran's Supreme Leader. Kharazi had alleged that Pezeshkian felt sidelined in decision-making and frequently threatened to resign.

The office of the Supreme Leader has since declared Kharazi's statements as false. Pezeshkian also addressed other claims, refuting reports of 30,000 deaths during recent protests and asserting full agreement with the military's top leadership. The interview appeared to be an effort to counter perceptions of weakness or marginalization due to his diplomatic approach.

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If I wanted to resign, I would state it officially. I will not step down, I will continue to stand firm.