Ali Larijani: Return from Political Shadows in Iran

Юлия Воробьева Analytics
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Ali Larijani: Returning from Political Shadows in Iran

Ali Larijani's figure has always stood out against the complex structure of Iranian power


After the military and political elite of Iran were partially removed by the actions of the USA and Israel, a process of power redistribution began in the country. In this context, Ali Larijani emerged as a significant figure, who had previously run for the presidency multiple times and led the parliament for over a decade.

Larijani has always distinguished himself among Iranian politicians; he was long considered a "cautious heavyweight," capable of maneuvering between conservative and pragmatic factions. However, after his disqualification from the presidential elections in 2021, it seemed that his influence had waned.

Nevertheless, the situation has changed significantly. With the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and the rise of Masoud Pezeshkian to power, Larijani not only returned to the political arena but also took an important role in shaping the new political reality.

A key moment was the change in the position of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. While in 2021 Larijani was excluded from the elections by the Guardian Council, in 2024 he became a "special envoy" on crucial issues and began undertaking diplomatic missions on behalf of the country's leadership. His recent trips to Lebanon and Syria amid regional conflicts demonstrated that Tehran trusts him to convey serious messages.

Larijani has also become an informal link between the office of the Supreme Leader and Pezeshkian's government, which, although sincere, does not always keep pace with the complex political games.

Analysts note that Larijani acts as a "big brother" for the current administration. His ability to manage situations and propose strategic solutions is in high demand.

"Larijani embodies the Iranian establishment, aware that for the system's survival, it is necessary not just to speak but to demonstrate competent governance." His influence is evident in personnel policies, economic pragmatism, and the restraint of radical sentiments, although he is also accused of suppressing recent protests.

Many of his associates have taken key positions in the government and advisory bodies. Larijani actively promotes ideas of "reasonable opening" of the economy and the resumption of negotiations on the nuclear deal with the West, aligning with the new government's course.

Having significant authority in the parliament, which he led for 12 years, Larijani previously helped neutralize attacks from ultra-conservatives on the government.

The strengthening of Larijani's position is a response of the system to internal and external challenges. After the protests of recent years and increasing pressure from the West, Iranian ruling circles felt a lack of "rational conservatives."

Larijani does not demand radical reforms that could undermine the foundations of the republic, but advocates for the creation of an "effective state." In the eyes of Ali Khamenei, he has become the ideal candidate for stabilizing the situation.

Today, experts note that Ali Larijani is the voice of reason in a turbulent region. Although he does not hold the presidency, his influence on Iran's foreign policy and strategic decisions may have grown stronger than ever in the past decade. This serves as confirmation of how patience and composure in Iranian politics can lead to the heights of power.

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