Iran’s Parliament (Majles) today convened a dramatic session to impeach Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati, marking the first major political crisis for President Massoud Pezeshkian’s administration. The proceedings, attended by 246 lawmakers and chaired by Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, underscored deep-seated frustrations over Iran’s spiraling economic woes, particularly the rial’s steep decline against the U.S. dollar. Initiated by a motion signed by 91 MPs on February 20, the impeachment reflects mounting tensions between the legislative and executive branches at a time of acute financial strain.

Hemmati faced two hours of intense questioning from lawmakers, who accused him of mismanaging economic policies amid soaring inflation and currency depreciation. President Pezeshkian, present to defend his minister, argued that monetary and banking decisions were collective efforts involving multiple government bodies and experts, not Hemmati’s alone. Granted three hours to make his case, Hemmati was backed by supportive MPs, but the stakes remain high. Under Iran’s parliamentary rules, a successful impeachment could see him removed, dealing a blow to Pezeshkian’s fledgling tenure.

The session unfolded against a backdrop of public discontent, with Iran’s economy battered by sanctions, mismanagement, and global isolation. Hemmati, a former central bank governor, has been a lightning rod for criticism as the rial hit record lows, eroding purchasing power and fueling unrest. This impeachment echoes prior moves, such as the ousting of Industry Minister Reza Fatemi Amin in 2023, but its timing—early in Pezeshkian’s presidency—signals a legislature eager to assert control.

Updates Since Publishing: 

Iran's parliament voted to fire the country's economy minister over the plummeting rial and economic mismanagement. Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said 182 out of 273 lawmakers voted against Abdolnasser Hemmati. The chamber has 290 seats.