Iran’s caretaker in transition
Who is Mohammad Mokhber?
Mohammad Mokhber is a military-aligned technocrat who has become a key figure in Iran’s political transition.
Appointed as first vice president by President Ebrahim Raisi in August 2021, Mokhber has been given a broad mandate to oversee the government’s economic and security portfolios.
The new caretaker
Born in 1955 in the religious city of Yazd, Mokhber has dedicated much of his life to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC and its economic networks.
He has held several high-ranking positions in the IRGC, including commander of the IRGC’s Khatam-al Anbiya Construction Headquarters, a powerful engineering and construction conglomerate with significant influence over Iran’s economy.
A key figure
Mokhber is considered a close confidant of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say on all state matters.
His appointment as first vice president is widely seen as a sign that Khamenei is seeking to strengthen the role of the IRGC in the government.
Mokhber has been given a wide-ranging mandate, including overseeing the government’s economic and security portfolios.
He is also responsible for coordinating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mokhber’s appointment has been welcomed by some hardliners in Iran.
- They believe that he will be able to bring much-needed efficiency and discipline to the government.
- Others are concerned about his lack of experience in government.
- They fear that he will use his position to further the IRGC’s interests at the expense of the civilian population.
Mokhber in the spotlight
Mokhber has been in the spotlight recently for his role in overseeing the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He has also been involved in negotiations with foreign governments, including the United States, on issues such as the nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions.
Mokhber is a complex and controversial figure.
His role in Iran’s political transition will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.
Kind regards E. Thompson.
