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Zarif or Soleimani; Which One is More Influential Today?

Jan 24, 2026 January 24, 2026 1 min read 📰 Radio Farda
📋 Key Takeaway

The article discusses the current influence of Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif compared to Qassem Soleimani. It highlights the tensions within Iran's political landscape, particularly regarding foreign policy, and suggests that discussions about 'shadow ministers' are prevalent among high-ranking officials. This situation is significant as it reflects ongoing power struggles within the Iranian government.

🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line: The influence of military versus diplomatic figures in Iran highlights internal power struggles affecting its foreign policy.

👥 Key Players

Mohammad Javad Zarif MENTIONED
Foreign Minister of Iran
"Zarif is a key figure in Iran's diplomatic efforts, known for his role in negotiating the Iran nuclear deal."
Qassem Soleimani MENTIONED
Commander of the Quds Force
"Soleimani was influential in Iran's regional military strategies and operations, particularly in Syria and Iraq."
Hassan Rouhani MENTIONED
President of Iran
"Rouhani's administration is characterized by efforts to engage with the West and moderate Iran's international image."
Bashar al-Assad MENTIONED
President of Syria
"Assad is a key ally of Iran in the region, with Iran providing significant support to his regime."

📰 What Happened

The article examines the influence of Mohammad Javad Zarif and Qassem Soleimani in Iran's foreign policy, highlighting internal tensions and the concept of 'shadow ministers.'

  • Zarif's resignation and return to the Foreign Ministry were controversial.
  • Soleimani's presence in Tehran with Assad, without Zarif's knowledge, underscores his influence.

💡 Why It Matters

🇮🇷 For Iran: This reflects internal power struggles and the complexity of Iran's foreign policy decision-making.
🌍 Regional: Iran's foreign policy and military actions significantly impact regional stability, particularly in Syria and Iraq.
🌐 International: Understanding Iran's internal dynamics is crucial for international actors engaging with or opposing Iran.

📚 Background

Iran's foreign policy is shaped by both diplomatic efforts and military strategies, often leading to internal tensions between different power centers.

Iran nuclear deal Iran's role in Syria
📡 Source: NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence: 70%
The source appears to provide an analysis of internal Iranian dynamics without overt bias.

Mohammad Javad Zarif or Qassem Soleimani; which one has more power and influence in foreign policy today? Although Zarif's controversial resignation and subsequent return to the Foreign Ministry faced opposition from Hassan Rouhani, and despite the Quds Force commander's implicit support for him, the reality remains that Soleimani was in Tehran alongside Bashar al-Assad, while Zarif was unaware of his presence. The publication of the quote that, according to Hassan Rouhani, 'Iran only has one foreign minister,' not only did not dampen speculation about the existence of a 'shadow foreign minister or ministers,' but for many, it became a sign that such discussions are being raised at high political levels. What do these events mean for Iran's diplomatic apparatus and for Mohammad Javad Zarif? How should we assess Qassem Soleimani's role in Iran's foreign policy? We have addressed these questions in this program.

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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →

Translation confidence: 85%

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