Tehran Appoints Former Nuclear Negotiator as Foreign Minister Amidst Tensions with the West and Israel

Tehran's reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian has appointed Abbas Araghchi, a former nuclear negotiator, as foreign minister in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at addressing the dual challenges of resuming sanctions relief discussions with Western powers and managing escalating tensions with Israel. Araghchi, who played a pivotal role in the 2015 nuclear accord, had been marginalized by hardliners in recent years. His nomination, presented to parliament alongside 18 others, has been positively received by Western diplomats and Iran's business community, signaling a potential shift towards a more pragmatic approach in Iran's long-standing nuclear negotiations. The appointment comes at a time of heightened concern regarding Iran's relationship with Israel, particularly following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which Iranian officials attribute to Israeli actions. A senior Western envoy noted that while Araghchi's experience could facilitate routine diplomatic matters, significant foreign policy decisions remain under the control of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Revolutionary Guards, suggesting that substantial changes may be limited. Pezeshkian's administration faces immediate challenges, particularly in the wake of Haniyeh's assassination, which has damaged Iran's international standing. The newly elected president, who took office after the sudden death of former president Ebrahim Raisi, has emphasized the need for economic recovery, hindered by US sanctions and domestic inflation rates nearing 40 percent. In addition to foreign policy challenges, Pezeshkian has committed to addressing social issues, including easing restrictions on women, reducing internet censorship, and improving representation for ethnic and religious minorities, as well as youth, within his government.