Mojtaba Khamenei

Four senior Iranian sources described how the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was uniquely positioned to capture a large share of any financial rewards that would accrue from sanctions relief.

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Khamenei said that he eventually approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) based only on a series of promises from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and the negotiating team. 

The uncertainty surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei's grasp on power could lead to policy innovation or internal conflicts.

Some 126 people were arrested for "sabotage operations and rioting" during the January protests, while four individuals were accused of spying for Israel and the US, Iranian media reported.

"They free a few hundred in every celebration, every festival, and it seems from outside that they are a kind and democratic and merciful regime…but they are taking hostages," said Sabti.

Any deal with the ayatollahs is a betrayal of freedom," said one Tehran resident. "They do not attach any value to the people, and are not bound by any value or agreement."

Iran International reported that missile launches toward Israel may have been carried out under pre-established protocols without coordination with Khamenei’s office.

Israeli defense officials believe Tehran is using Washington’s reluctance to resume military action to improve its negotiating position.

Rezaei framed the demand for the release of $24 billion in Iranian assets as a "test of trust" for Trump, warning that the Islamic Republic would expand the war if hostilities resume.