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

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf has achieved a significant political victory by removing two of his most vocal critics from key roles in the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee. The dismissed members, Ibrahim Razai, the committee spokesman, and Mahmoud Nabavian, the deputy chairman, were known for their staunch opposition to negotiations with the United States. This move marks a deepening rift within Iran's conservative camp, with Qalibaf consolidating power amid ongoing tensions over the country's diplomatic approach.

The changes occurred shortly after the parliament resumed activity following a suspension ordered by the Supreme National Security Council amid recent conflicts. Qalibaf was re-elected for a seventh consecutive term as parliament speaker, and the internal committee elections shifted influence toward members perceived as more supportive of diplomacy. The hardline faction, including the ultra-conservative Paydari Front, criticized the process, with the Revolutionary Guards-affiliated Fars News Agency questioning the vote's legality and calling for a re-vote.

The reshuffle is seen by reformist-aligned outlets as a sign of shifting power balances that could affect Iran's foreign and security policies in the coming months. Despite the internal disputes, Qalibaf emphasized the necessity of combining military readiness with diplomatic efforts to protect Iran's national interests, particularly regarding control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. He denied that engaging in talks with the US signaled weakness and revealed he had faced attacks from extremists for leading the negotiations under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's guidance.

Meanwhile, parliament members have proposed legislation to increase parliamentary oversight of government decisions related to negotiations and the Hormuz Strait, including establishing a special committee to monitor talks with Washington and the implementation of conditions set by Khamenei. Qalibaf's statements aimed to reassure both the international community and the Iranian public amid ongoing conflict and debate over the country's diplomatic direction.