Tehran's Elite Infighting: Mediation, Censorship, and Scandal Uncovered
A Struggle for Control
Infighting in Tehran has reached a tumultuous peak, reflecting a battle for power and control among Iran’s elite. State-controlled newspapers paint a chaotic picture of an imploding regime, caught in the throes of an economic crisis and a fear of uprising among the public, each faction scrambling to cast blame and protect its own interests.
The Mediation Debacle
In a recent clash, President Pezeshkian’s attempt to open dialogue with Saudi Arabia for mediation with Washington sparked outrage amongst the Revolutionary Guards and led to a public denouncement by supreme leader Khamenei. As mentioned in Javan, the call for prosecution of Pezeshkian’s allies reflected a strict stance against any form of foreign outreach without the Leader’s sanction.
The Scandal of the “White SIMs”
Adding fuel to the fire, the revelation of a “white internet”—reserved uncensored access for officials—has outraged citizens. Activists exposed elite internet privileges as the regime’s hypocrisy, a system where those in power live above the rules they enforce on the public. The uncovering of this tiered access exacerbated feelings of inequality and mistrust among the population.
Economic Turmoil and Collapse
Economic instability remains a stark backdrop to the political chaos. Reports from Donyay-e Eqtesad highlight surging inflation and worsening inequality as gasoline price hikes threaten to plunge more citizens into poverty. The nation’s economic policies are seen as unsustainable, with predictions of severe inflationary waves if devaluation continues unchecked.
Health Ministry Mired in Corruption
A resignation scandal within the Health Ministry has brought further disgrace to the administration. Allegations of bribery for access to medical services reflect systemic corruption in the government. This incident only intensified public disillusionment, illustrating a regime perceived more as a self-serving entity than a governing body concerned with the welfare of its people.
Survival Over Governance
What emerges from this political theatre is a regime more focused on preserving its power than effective governance. Former President Rouhani and Army Chief Hatami’s remarks stress the regime’s priority of survival over the establishment of genuine security or prosperity for Iran.
The internal discord and fear of public uprising overshadow governance, leaving the nation in a precarious position. The clerical elite seems entangled in a desperate fight for continued dominance, reflecting a fundamental loss of confidence and unity.
As stated in National Council of Resistance of Iran - NCRI, the transparency and future of Iran’s governance remain subjects of intense speculation and concern.
