Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is at the center of a major drama within the Iranian regime. One of the few remaining officials after the many assassinations in “Roaring Lion,” he’s accused of meeting with Americans without approval from the ‘Supreme Leader’. Following this, a request to investigate the minister was submitted today (Tuesday) to the Iranian parliament’s presidency, which is expected to consider it—and could lead to the minister’s impeachment.
1+According to reports from Iran, the investigation will also include accusations against Araghchi of crossing red lines during negotiations, errors in political calculations, as well as criticism of how he managed relations with the United States. It’s important to emphasize that these accusations do not constitute a final ruling on the foreign minister’s performance or proof of the allegations.
The investigation will also reportedly examine the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s performance in economic diplomacy, the method of rotation and selection of some ambassadors, allegations of failure to present new foreign policy initiatives, and excessive focus on negotiations with the United States. As mentioned, the request is expected to go before the parliament’s presidency, which will decide whether to open an investigation.
1+Araghchi was considered one of the closest associates to the assassinated ‘Supreme Leader’ Ali Khamenei, who appointed him to lead talks with the US before his death. During the months since Khamenei’s son—close to the Revolutionary Guards—came to power, there have been numerous arguments between the foreign minister and the terror organization regarding negotiations with the US. It’s possible the Revolutionary Guards have tired of the arguments and this is their way of “clearing” the minister from the talks.