Iranian Parliament Speaker Strengthens Position by Removing Hardline Critics of US Negotiations

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf has scored a political victory by ousting two of his most vocal hardline critics from key roles in the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee. The dismissed officials include the committee's spokesperson, Ebrahim Razai, and its deputy chairman, Mahmoud Nabavian, both known for their staunch opposition to negotiations with the United States. This move, seen as a blow to the hardline faction, was met with criticism from the Revolutionary Guards-affiliated Fars news agency, which questioned the legality of the vote and suggested a re-election might be necessary.

The changes come as the Iranian parliament resumed activity after a hiatus since the recent conflict escalation, with Qalibaf recently securing his seventh consecutive term as speaker. The reshuffle has strengthened the influence of committee members more supportive of diplomatic engagement, signaling a potential shift in Iran's foreign and security policy. Reformist-aligned media also viewed the development as a significant power realignment within one of the parliament's most important committees.

Hardliners accused Qalibaf of deliberately sidelining the ultra-conservative Fadaei Front faction, which remains a minority in the parliament despite its vocal opposition to dialogue with Washington. Social media critics accused Qalibaf of authoritarian tactics, noting the parliament only convened twice recently: once to re-elect him and once to remove his opponents.

Meanwhile, parliamentarians have proposed legislation to increase parliamentary oversight of government decisions on negotiations and policies related to the Strait of Hormuz. A special committee is also being sought to monitor talks with the US and ensure compliance with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's conditions.

Qalibaf himself emphasized that despite renewed hostilities with the US, diplomatic negotiations remain a necessary tool for advancing Iran's national interests. He rejected claims that talks signify surrender, revealing he faced attacks from hardliners for leading the negotiations but insisted his actions align with Khamenei's guidance. He also accused the US of violating agreements and attempting to undermine Iranian control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz by allowing passage through alternative routes.

Qalibaf's statements appear aimed both at the international community, concerned about escalating conflict and economic fallout, and at a divided Iranian public debating whether to pursue diplomacy or continue military confrontation with the US.