Iran’s Vice-President Mohammed Javad Zarif has resigned, stepping down from President Massud Pezeshkian’s cabinet just 11 days after his appointment.
“I am not satisfied with my work and regret that I have not been able to fulfill expectations,” the moderate politician said on his X platform.
Read Also: Tension As Thousands Of Ukrainian Troops Storm Russia
Mr. Zarif indicated that his decision to withdraw was influenced by the selection of ministers for Pezeshkian’s new cabinet. He revealed that at least seven out of the 19 nominated ministers were not his preferred choices.
Zarif’s withdrawal marks the second major issue for Pezeshkian since he assumed office at the end of July. This follows the recent killing of Palestinian militant Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
Zarif, who was a key supporter during Pezeshkian’s presidential campaign and played a significant role in his victory, was tasked with compiling a list of candidates for government positions to implement promised reforms. However, the list presented by Pezeshkian on Sunday reportedly did not align with the planned reforms, leading to speculation that Iran’s hardline conservative faction influenced the ministerial appointments.
Zarif, who served as Iran’s chief diplomat from 2013 to 2021 and led the successful negotiations for the international nuclear agreement in 2015, was also expected to help resume nuclear talks with a new team of diplomats. The goal was to lift sanctions that have significantly impacted the Iranian economy.
