Zarif Challenges Critics: True Courage Lies in Sealing the Deal, Not Just Yelling!

In the realm of Iranian politics, Vice-President for Strategic Affairs Javad Zarif has recently confronted criticism over his advocacy for a foreign policy focused on engagement, even with some of Iran’s adversaries. His comments have sparked discussions about the importance of courage and consensus in achieving national interests.

During a statement to IRNA on Tuesday, Zarif emphasized the necessity of risk-taking in foreign relations, stating, “To materialize national interests, having the courage to take risks is a necessity.” He further elaborated, “To simply sit back would mean you don’t have the courage to take risks and make a deal.”

Zarif highlighted the significance of national interests in building consensus, referring to the motto embraced by President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration:

• National Interests: “The basis for consensus is national interests and the interests of the public,” he remarked.
• Collaboration: “We all should agree to work for national interests and not expect ovation.”

His stance has made him a target for a faction of Iranian politicians who oppose his willingness to engage in dialogue with the United States. Zarif previously served as Iran’s chief negotiator during the pivotal 2015 agreement with six world powers, including the U.S.

After Zarif discussed the Pezeshkian administration’s foreign policy during a recent interview in Davos, Switzerland, his critics intensified their attacks. Protests erupted in Tehran and two other cities, with participants labeling Zarif as “coward,” “wimpy,” and “a traitor.”

In response to the backlash, Zarif likened the criticisms to “the foam on sea water,” stating, “It goes. What stays is that which is [carried out] in the interest of the people.” He asserted that achieving public interest at critical junctures demands courage.

“You need courage to make an agreement to resolve problems and conquer crises; you don’t need to [be able to] shout loudly,” he stated, contrasting the loud criticism with the quieter work of building consensus.

“Anyone can yell. It’s building consensus and having people’s and national interests in mind that needs courage,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian has been actively engaging in discussions with leaders from the other branches of the Iranian government to align their policies for a unified approach.