New Delhi: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has assumed “de facto control” over key parts of the government, according to a report by Iran International. The development comes during a prolonged conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, which has continued for more than a month.
The report says the country has also suffered major losses during the war, including the death of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and strikes on critical military sites. At the same time, uncertainty surrounds the condition and whereabouts of the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Power struggle within government
According to Iran International, growing tension between President Masoud Pezeshkian and the military leadership has created a “complete political deadlock”. The report claims that the Revolutionary Guard has taken over several key functions, limiting the president’s ability to govern.
Sources cited by the publication said the IRGC has blocked presidential decisions and appointments. It has also strengthened security around central power centres, reducing the role of the elected government in executive matters.
Appointments blocked by IRGC
The report states that Pezeshkian’s recent attempt to appoint a new intelligence minister failed. The move faced direct opposition from IRGC chief commander Ahmad Vahidi.
All suggested candidates, including Hossein Dehghan, were rejected. Vahidi reportedly argued that in the current wartime situation, the IRGC must directly control all sensitive leadership positions until further notice.
Under Iran’s system, presidents usually propose names for such roles only after approval from the Supreme Leader, who holds final authority over security matters.
Military council holds authority
The report further claims that a “military council” of senior IRGC officials now controls major decision making. This group has created a security barrier around Mojtaba Khamenei and is reportedly restricting information flow to him.
Pezeshkian has tried to secure an urgent meeting with Mojtaba in recent days, but sources say there has been no response. The lack of contact has added to uncertainty over who holds real authority in Tehran.
The situation reflects a shift in power balance, with military leadership gaining influence during the ongoing conflict, according to Iran International.