Ali Larijani, currently serving as the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, has returned to this pivotal role for the second time since August 2025. His extensive political career encompasses significant positions, including Minister and Speaker of Parliament, as well as multiple presidential candidacies, marking him as a prominent figure in Iran’s governance.
Regarded as a pragmatic conservative by Western powers, Larijani has been at the forefront of negotiations with international entities. However, his influence is met with skepticism, particularly regarding the Revolutionary Guards, a powerful faction within Iran. Azadeh Kian, a professor emeritus of sociology at Paris-Cité University, expressed doubts about Larijani’s authority, stating, “It is not obvious that his orders will actually be followed, particularly by the Revolutionary Guards, who are a state within a state.”
Despite his experience, Larijani faces significant challenges. Mahnaz Shirali, a political scientist specializing in Iran, has been vocal about the public’s perception of him, claiming that he is “hated by Iranians and is a criminal against humanity.” This sentiment underscores the complexities of his political standing, as he attempts to navigate a landscape fraught with distrust and opposition.
Negotiations with Western powers have been a hallmark of Larijani’s career, yet the effectiveness of his leadership remains in question. Observers note that while he may possess the political weight to negotiate a departure from the regime, he is unlikely to embody the future of Iranian power. Kian further elaborates on this precarious position, suggesting that if external forces, such as the Americans or Israelis, wished to eliminate him, he would meet a swift end, “like the others.”
As the political landscape in Iran continues to evolve, the future of Larijani’s role remains uncertain. His ability to influence key decisions and maintain authority amidst internal dissent will be closely monitored. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of his power and the potential for any shifts in the Revolutionary Guards’ loyalty.
