Iran's Top Reformist Official Resigns Under Pressure From Hardliners

Mohammad Javad Zarif steps down in a significant political shift as conservatives tighten control over Iran's government.

Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's vice-president for strategic affairs and a prominent reformist, has resigned, citing pressure from senior officials and hardline factions.
Zarif's resignation follows the impeachment of Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati, another reformist figure, by Iran's hardline-dominated parliament.
Hardliners have criticized Zarif for his ties to the West, including his American-born children, which allegedly violate a 2022 law restricting dual-citizenship holders from political office.
The resignations signal a shift in Iran's political landscape, with conservatives consolidating power and reformist efforts to engage with the West increasingly sidelined.
The developments come as Iran faces severe economic challenges, including 35% inflation, a plunging currency, and heightened tensions over its nuclear program.