IRGC Tightens Grip On Iran With ‘De Facto Control', Stops Presidential Appointments And Decisions

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has taken full control of notable functions of the state by establishing a "de facto control" of the government amid the power struggle with President Pezeshkian’s administration, Iran International reported. The development comes amidst the emerging tensions between the civilian government and military leadership, which has pushed the President what they call a "complete political deadlock."

As part of the de-facto control, the military force has reportedly blocked presidential appointments and policy decisions. The state government is now unable to exercise executive authority in several critical areas.

The Pexeshktian administration, on last Thursday, failed to appoint a new intelligence minister as the IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi intervened. Each of the proposed candidates, including Hossein Dehghan, was rejected.

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Vahidi claimed that it is a volatile situation for the Islamic Republic, and all strategic posts must be controlled by the IRGC itself.

As per Iran's political system, the President is the one who nominates ministers after consulting with the Supreme leader. However, after several attempts of contacting Mojataba Khamenei, he did not respond. Uncertainty was surrounding regarding his whereabouts and condition, complicating the process.

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According to sources cited by Iran International, a “military council” consisting of senior IRGC officers is now exercising full control over central decision-making, enforcing a strict security cordon around Mojtaba Khamenei. Pezesjkian made several attempts to secure an urgent meeting with Mojtaba Khamenei; the call reportedly went unanswered, with no direct contact established in recent days.

The arrangement has made it impossible for government reports about the state of the nation to reach the inner circle of the Supreme Leader, which has raised more questions about how Iran's governance mechanisms are operating. Although there has been no official confirmation, there has been conjecture that Mojtaba Khamenei's health may play a role in the present power dynamics.