A member of Iran's Expediency Discernment Council has sharply criticized attempts to create divisions between proponents and opponents of negotiations with the United States.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Iranian officials issued a statement regarding the ongoing domestic debate over foreign policy direction.
Mohammad Reza Bahonar stated that the practice by certain political circles of labeling individuals as "traitors" or "spies" risks eroding public trust in the country's governance system. He emphasized that political labels, such as "reformist" or "principled," lose their relevance during times of crisis and that such rhetoric is primarily intended to sow discord within society.
Bahonar further characterized these divisive tactics as a form of "fifth column" strategy, warning against the long-term consequences of internal polarization. The Expediency Discernment Council, which Bahonar serves on, acts as an advisory body to the Supreme Leader and plays a crucial role in resolving legislative disputes and determining the general policies of the Islamic Republic.
The debate over potential engagement with Washington remains a sensitive issue in Iranian politics. While some factions advocate for diplomatic channels to address economic challenges, others maintain a hardline stance, viewing such dialogue as detrimental to national sovereignty. This internal friction highlights the complex political landscape in Tehran as it navigates its relationship with the United States under the administration of US President Donald Trump.
