Ghalibaf emerges as a key figure in Iranian politics, dismisses Trump's talks claim as 'fake news'
Born in 1961, Ghalibaf's career spans military service, national police, and mayoral roles, showcasing his administrative prowess. He's known for his hardline stance, yet considered a potential key negotiator with the US, especially amid current tensions
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu):A name is making the rounds in Iranian politics these days, and it's Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. He currently serves as the speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, Iran's parliament, and according to reports, he is considered a key figure in potential negotiations with the United States. Furthermore, his social media posts, which express his views against US President Donald Trump, have often grabbed headlines.
When Trump announced a five-day postponement of the attack on Monday, Ghalibaf was the one who labeled it fake news. He flatly rejected the US proposal, saying, "Our people demand harsh punishment for the attackers. All officials stand firmly with their leader and the people until this goal is achieved. There have been no negotiations with the US. These false reports are an attempt to manipulate the financial and oil markets and to extricate the US and Israel from the quagmire in which they are trapped."
Born in 1961 in the northeastern Iranian city of Torkabeh, Ghalibaf's early life was marked by significant political change in the country. The 1979 Islamic Revolution, which ended the monarchy and established the Islamic Republic of Iran, played a significant role in shaping his thinking and career.
Ghalibaf began his career in the military field. He served as a pilot in the Iranian Air Force and later joined the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). His administrative abilities gradually led him to hold several important positions in the country. He served as Iran's National Police Chief, where he initiated numerous measures to strengthen law and order. He then served a long term as Mayor of the capital, Tehran, overseeing urban development and infrastructure projects.
In 2020, Ghalibaf was elected Speaker of Parliament, a position previously held by Ali Larijani. As Speaker, he plays a key role in guiding legislative processes and national policies. Pursuing political ambitions, Ghalibaf has also contested the presidential election several times, but was unsuccessful. He finished third in the 2024 election, where Masoud Pezeshkian emerged victorious and Saeed Jalili came in second. Ghalibaf is generally seen as a "hardliner," a leader who takes a tough stance in Iranian politics.
Currently, there is talk in the international media that the US is looking to Ghalibaf as a key negotiator to resolve the ongoing tensions and war-like situation with Iran. However, Ghalibaf has denied these reports, stating that no talks have taken place. He has also taken a jab at US President Donald Trump's policies and strategies on social media.
Meanwhile, Politico reported on Monday, citing two US government officials, that Donald Trump's administration is quietly considering Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, as a potential partner, and even a future leader.
Overall, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is an influential and experienced leader in Iran's power structure, whose political and administrative experience makes him an important figure within the country and on the international stage.