Iran's Supreme Leader Meets Parliament Speaker in Rare Public Appearance

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei met with Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf in a rare public engagement, according to the official IRNA news agency. This is reportedly the first official announcement of a meeting between the two since Khamenei's appointment as Supreme Leader. The meeting, also reported by Tasnim News Agency, focused on developments in the military, economic, and ideological confrontation with the United States and Israel. Both leaders emphasized the need to strengthen Iran's power, maintain social cohesion and national unity, and encourage public participation in street gatherings. They also discussed cooperation between the government and parliament to address economic problems and citizens' livelihoods, as well as advancing relations with Iran's strategic partners. Ghalibaf presented Khamenei with a report on the parliament's activities since the war began and its future plans.

Mojtaba Khamenei has had minimal public exposure since becoming Supreme Leader in March, following the elimination of his father, Ali Khamenei. He was notably absent from his father's funeral in July, reportedly due to security concerns over assassination attempts, which also raised questions about his role in state affairs. The meeting occurs amidst power struggles within the Iranian leadership. Ghalibaf is said to belong to a faction favoring an agreement with the U.S. and de-escalation, opposing hardliners who resist compromise. The appointment of Mohsen Rezaei as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council in August was seen partly as an effort to balance Ghalibaf's influence in decision-making circles.