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Mohammad Mokhber: Iran's New Interim President, who is he?
As stipulated by the country's constitution, Mokhber now steps into the role of interim president, working alongside the speaker of parliament and the head of the judiciary to organize a new presidential election within the next 50 days.
ZL
by Zohaib Ali Lashari
Mohammad Mokhber: Iran's New Interim President, who is he?

In the wake of the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of President Ebrahim Raisi, Iran finds itself under the interim leadership of Mohammad Mokhber, the first vice president. As stipulated by the country's constitution, Mokhber now steps into the role of interim president, working alongside the speaker of parliament and the head of the judiciary to organize a new presidential election within the next 50 days. This transition period not only introduces Mokhber to a global audience but also raises questions about the future of Iran’s policies and its impact on middle-east geopolitics.

A Leader Closely Tied to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei

Born on September 1, 1955, Mohammad Mokhber is known for his close association with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, much like his predecessor, Ebrahim Raisi. Mokhber’s political journey saw a significant milestone in 2021 when he became the first vice president after Raisi's election. His elevation to interim president continues the trend of leadership deeply aligned with Khamenei’s vision and directives.

Background and Sanctions

Mokhber's tenure as head of Setad, an investment fund with direct ties to the supreme leader, marked a controversial chapter in his career. Setad, formally known as Setad Ejraiye Farmane Hazrate Emam, was established under the directive of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the Islamic Republic's founder. Its mission was to manage and sell properties abandoned post-1979 revolution, channeling proceeds towards charitable causes. However, its operations have attracted international scrutiny and sanctions.

In 2010, the European Union sanctioned Mokhber for his alleged involvement in Iran's nuclear or ballistic missile activities. Although the EU removed him from the list two years later, the US Treasury Department added Setad and 37 affiliated companies to its list of sanctioned entities in 2013. These sanctions highlight the complex web of financial and political maneuvers that Mokhber has navigated, raising concerns about his potential policies as interim president.

Diplomatic Endeavors and Military Engagements

Mokhber's recent diplomatic activities include a notable visit to Moscow in October, where he, along with senior Iranian officials, agreed to supply surface-to-surface missiles and additional drones to Russia’s military. Such decisions reflect Mokhber’s strategic mindset and foreshadow potential continuations or escalations in Iran's military and foreign policies.

Implications for Middle East Geopolitics

Mokhber’s interim presidency comes at a critical juncture for Iran and the broader Middle East. His leadership could solidify Iran’s existing strategies, particularly its support for proxy groups and alliances with nations like Russia. However, Mokhber’s history with Setad and the sanctions might also influence a more cautious approach in economic and diplomatic arenas.

Continuity and Change

While Mokhber shares Raisi’s close ties with Khamenei, his extensive background in economic management through Setad might steer Iran’s domestic policies towards addressing economic challenges exacerbated by sanctions. His ability to balance hardline stances with pragmatic economic policies will be crucial in determining Iran’s trajectory during his interim tenure.

Mokhber's presidency is expected to maintain continuity in Iran's alignment with Khamenei’s directives, while his economic acumen and controversial past could introduce nuanced shifts in policy. The implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics are profound, potentially affecting ongoing conflicts and alliances.
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Iran

president of iran

mohmmad mokhbir
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