Larijani had also made several trips to key ally Moscow in recent months to discuss a range of security ties, in a further sign of his return to high-level diplomacy. Controversy and SanctionsBut in the wake of January's outpouring of anti-government anger, his security council role was denounced by Washington. Back then, Iranian analysts said he sought to persuade the West through diplomacy and was regarded as a pragmatist. Larijani was also tasked with advancing negotiations with China which led to a 25-year cooperation agreement in 2021. Born in Najaf, Iraq, in 1958 to a leading Iranian clerical family, Larijani moved to Iran as a child and went on to earn a philosophy PhD.

Source: Mint March 01, 2026 14:06 UTC