Iran has formally sidelined a ceasefire plan proposed by the United States, signaling a strategic shift in its diplomatic and security apparatus. According to reports, the decision is largely attributed to the influence of Mojtaba Khamenei, who has moved to consolidate institutional control. The US plan aimed to engage with the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, to secure American interests. However, the appointment of Baqer Zolqadr as the new Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has effectively disrupted these diplomatic efforts. This move underscores Iran's stance that national decisions are governed by a solid system rather than individual figures.
Appointment of Baqer Zolqadr as SNSC Secretary
According to Fars News, Baqer Zolqadr has been appointed as the new Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. The appointment was made by the Iranian President following a recommendation from Mojtaba Khamenei, while zolqadr, a former General of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is considered a close confidant of the Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. His history within the Iranian establishment dates back to 1989, when he was appointed as the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the IRGC during Ali Khamenei's early tenure as Supreme Leader. Recently, Zolqadr had been serving as an advisor to the government and the Supreme Leader on policy matters, while his elevation is seen as a move to strengthen the internal security framework against external diplomatic pressures.
US Strategy to Engage Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf
Reports from Axios and Politico indicate that the Trump administration had developed a strategy to build confidence with Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, identifying him as a pivotal figure in Iran. The US administration viewed Ghalibaf as a strong leader with significant influence over the IRGC, while as part of this plan, Vice President-elect JD Vance was reportedly prepared to initiate direct communication with Ghalibaf. Sources within the White House suggested that the Trump administration intended to project Ghalibaf as a potential successor or a primary authority in Iran to facilitate a favorable ceasefire agreement. However, the recent institutional changes in Tehran have presented a significant hurdle to this American diplomatic initiative.
Mojtaba Khamenei’s Influence on Institutional Decisions
By recommending the appointment of Baqer Zolqadr, Mojtaba Khamenei has sent a clear message to the international community, particularly the United States. The primary objective of this decision is to demonstrate that Iran’s administrative and security systems are fully operational and that no single individual can bypass the established hierarchy. Mojtaba is perceived to be leading this systemic approach, ensuring that Iran’s core policies remain consistent regardless of changes in top leadership. This move also serves to neutralize speculations regarding Ghalibaf’s potential alignment with Western diplomatic goals, reaffirming that Iran’s sovereignty and decision-making processes remain insulated from external influence.
Official Stance of the Iranian Foreign Ministry
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently clarified the government's position in an interview, stating that the Supreme Leader’s directives are final regarding any potential agreements. Araghchi noted that clarity on diplomatic matters would only emerge once a formal message is received from the Supreme Leader. Previously, Ali Khamenei had issued a statement regarding a ceasefire, asserting that the United States must first apologize for its past actions before any negotiations could proceed. The Foreign Ministry’s stance reflects a calculated approach, indicating that Iran isn't in a rush to accept terms and will only engage based on its own strategic requirements.
Conditions for Ceasefire and Diplomatic Deadlock
Despite the diplomatic efforts from Washington, the proposed talks between Ghalibaf and JD Vance have not yet materialized, while politico reports that while the Trump administration continues to view Ghalibaf as a key interlocutor, the rising prominence of hardline figures like Zolqadr within the SNSC has complicated the path forward. The restructuring within Iran’s Supreme Council ensures that any future negotiations will be conducted within a framework defined by Zolqadr and Mojtaba Khamenei. Consequently, the US ceasefire plan remains in a state of uncertainty as Iran reinforces its internal political and security barriers against foreign intervention.