Iranian MP Removed from Key Security Committee Role After Criticizing US Negotiations

Ibrahim Razai, a senior Iranian parliamentarian known for his hardline stance and vocal opposition to negotiations with the United States, was removed from his position as spokesperson of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee on July 14. Razai, who had been an active social media presence and a prominent critic of Israel, the US, and the ongoing talks, was demoted to a regular committee member. This change followed the Iranian parliament's return after a four-month recess and coincided with the removal of Mahmoud Nabavian, the committee's deputy chairman, who also opposed the US negotiations.

The reshuffle was seen as a signal that the parliament and its security committee aim to adopt a more balanced approach supporting the negotiations. Despite losing his official spokesperson title, Razai continued to issue strong warnings against the US and Israel, including threats of retaliatory attacks beyond the Persian Gulf and calls for Iran to consider drastic measures such as withdrawing from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and closing the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Razai, born in 1982 in the southwestern province of Dashtestan, holds a doctorate in communications from Tehran and has worked for major Iranian media outlets. Nabavian, meanwhile, criticized Iran's negotiating team and leadership, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, accusing them of betraying Iran’s interests. He also cited a purported secret letter from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei opposing talks with the US unless strict conditions were met.

Following the vote, Ibrahim Azizi retained his role as committee chairman, with Abbas Maktadai and Amir Hayat Mokadem appointed as deputy chairs, and Hassan Kashkavavi replacing Razai as the committee spokesperson. The changes reflect ongoing internal tensions within Iran’s political elite over the direction of foreign policy and engagement with Washington.