New Delhi (India) April 1:IRGC has taken control over essential state functions in Iran , preventing presidential appointments and decisions, and at the same time, strengthening its control over main power centers of the country. This step has, in fact, removed the government from play and forced President Masoud Pezeshkian into a total political impasse. His administration and the military leadership of Iran have been at odds.

IRGC Blocks Pezeshkian Appointments

The IRGC has reportedly obstructed Pezeshkian's appointments and decisions, even his latest attempt to select a new intelligence minister. All the candidates put forward, including Hossein Dehghan, were turned down on the basis of pressure from IRGC head Ahmad Vahidi who argued that in this time of war the leadership of main positions should be the direct responsibility of the Guard. 

Traditional Intelligence Minister Selection

Traditionally, the president of Iran would identify individuals for the post of Intelligence Minister only after the Supreme Leader's nod, as the latter retains the final say on major security issues. On the other hand, doubts about the health and whereabouts of the Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in the last few weeks seem to have made the matter even more complex. Consequently, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has taken advantage of the situation and tightened their grip over the security establishment. 

Cuts Off Khamenei Access

A security cordon has been established around Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei so that he is cut off from government reports. Pezeshkian has made several requests for urgent meetings with Khamenei, but did not get any reply. Those familiar with the situation claim that the present deadlock is a result of the IRGC's overwhelming control over power, which in turn reveals how vulnerable Iran's civilian leadership is in a wartime environment and while facing succession disagreements.

Oust Aide Opposing Heir

According to the report, tensions within Khamenei's inner circle are mounting as well. A few insiders even suggest that it might be time to get rid of Ali Asghar Hejazi, an influential security official in the Supreme Leader's office.
The reason for such a move is Hejazi's resistance toMojtaba Khamenei's succession. He is also said to have call ed on the Assembly of Experts to not grant Mojtaba the necessary credentials and to have spoken out against hereditary leadership.