Iranian government officials have formally refuted widespread reports that President Masoud Pezeshkian has resigned from his position. The rumors, which circulated extensively over a 24-hour period, alleged that the president had stepped down due to an escalating power struggle between his administration and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The claims originated from Iran International, a London-based outlet operated by members of the Iranian diaspora. Citing an unnamed source, the outlet reported that Pezeshkian had submitted a formal letter of resignation to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Sunday. The report further alleged that the president felt marginalized regarding critical decision-making processes related to the nation’s ongoing military conflicts.
Following the initial publication, the narrative gained significant traction across international media platforms, including coverage by Israeli newspapers and the U.S. broadcaster Fox News. Public speculation was further fueled by a post on X from President Pezeshkian, in which he described the nation’s current situation as a "rugged, winding path" and alluded to "major challenges" facing the country.
Iranian government representatives moved quickly to counter the narrative, characterizing the reports as a recurring tactic employed by foreign-backed media to manufacture domestic discord. The president’s deputy head of communications utilized X to explicitly dismiss the claims as "rumor mongering" intended to sow instability within the state.
While the president has not issued a formal statement addressing the rumors directly, he signaled his intent to remain in office during a cabinet meeting held on Sunday. According to Iranian state media, Pezeshkian stated, "I will continue as long as I breathe," reaffirming his commitment to his presidential duties.
Evidence of his continued governance was corroborated by diplomatic activity shortly after the rumors emerged. Global news agencies and Japanese media confirmed that President Pezeshkian held a formal phone call with the Prime Minister of Japan on Monday. This diplomatic engagement serves as a functional indicator that the president remains active in his official capacity, contrary to the reports of his departure.
