Iranian President and Foreign Minister Physically Attacked by Hardline Opponents Amid Internal Dispute Over US Deal

Tensions within Iran's leadership have escalated sharply amid ongoing disputes over a ceasefire agreement with the United States. The divide pits a faction supporting negotiations with Washington, including President Masoud Pezhkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, against hardline elements vehemently opposing any deal with the US. The pro-negotiation camp accuses the US of violating the ceasefire terms, with Pezhkian stating on Wednesday that Washington "abuses rivals, creates obstacles, and deceives."

The internal conflict intensified during the week-long funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, held across five cities in Iran and Iraq. Khamenei's body arrived in Najaf, Iraq, coinciding with new US airstrikes, before being scheduled for burial in Mashhad. Throughout the funeral events, hardline supporters targeted government officials backing talks with the US. On Monday, President Pezhkian was physically attacked by extremist supporters shouting "Death to Pezhkian," forcing security personnel to intervene. Similarly, Foreign Minister Araghchi was stoned while fleeing through an alley during the funeral procession, with attackers waving flags and calling for his death.

Government officials and supporters have demanded the arrest and prosecution of those who assaulted the president and foreign minister, urging the judiciary to act against the extremists. In response, Pezhkian's son and advisor, Yousef Pezhkian, published a lengthy social media article defending the administration's US policy and condemning the attacks. He warned that if such anger targets officials and undermines internal unity, it plays into the hands of Iran's enemies.