Iran Daily Summary: A brief summary of the debates among Iranian commentators, selected for their relevance to the issues confronting the Islamic Republic. These entries are drawn from an immersive review and tracking of primarily indigenous media, supplemented by external media as appropriate.
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1. Ra’isi's Helicopter Crash Investigation:
- The initial findings suggest no foul play, with the helicopter following its flight path and catching fire after hitting elevated terrain.
- The report hasn't fully addressed lingering questions from MPs and other observers.
- Authorities are taking action against those ridiculing the incident to maintain peace and stability ahead of the presidential election on 28 June.
2. Entrepreneurs Condemn New Economic Policy:
- Iran's private sector is unhappy with new import restrictions and increased government oversight.
- New licensees cannot register import orders, and previously approved orders need provincial approval.
- The business community criticized these measures as reminiscent of a "Soviet-style" economy.
- The policy is seen as a response to the administration's financial issues, but the Chamber of Commerce plans to fight back.
3. Hardline Imam Criticizes Majles:
- The Tehran Friday prayer imam criticized the Majles for including Saturday as part of the weekend, reflecting ideological rigidity.
- This criticism continues despite the Majles passing the bill and may be postponed until after the presidential election due to its sensitivity amid the Gaza conflict.
4. Iran's Political Transition Post-Ra’isi:
- After President Ra’isi's death in a helicopter crash, Iran is moving quickly to stabilize the situation.
- Supreme Leader Khamenei appointed Mohammad-Mokhber Dezfuli as acting president and set a presidential election for 28 June.
- The election could follow a highly controlled "1400 formula" or a more competitive model.
- Potential candidates include Mokhber-Dezfuli, Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf, and Parviz Fattah-Qarabaghi for the controlled scenario or moderates and reformists like Ali Larijani and Eshaq Jahangiri for a competitive race.
- Hardliners are pushing their agenda during this political vacuum, including reversing the weekend bill and reviving Internet access restrictions.
