A video shot in secret from inside the Iranian Parliament has captivated the country and social media worldwide.
The footage, showing an argument over nuclear negotiations with the West, has been circulating on social media. One hardline politician can be seen calling Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif a “traitor” for his willingness to negotiate with the West, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Nuclear negotiations source of conflict in Iran
Hardline lawmaker Mahdi Kouchakzadeh can be seen insulting Zarif for his leadership of nuclear talks with the West. The video, apparently shot during a closed session, shows a full-blooded argument between the two men. Kouchakzadeh claims that he is speaking for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in calling Zarif a “traitor,” to which Zarif reacts angrily.
It is thought that the footage was filmed and leaked by an Iranian lawmaker that was present in parliament. The rumors have led to calls for an investigation into who was responsible, and the prosecution of the culprit.
Those Iranians who are not politicians are very rarely granted a window into the political machinations of their country. This video reveals the uninhibited, emotional side of their officials, which authorities are careful to keep under wraps. Although open parliament sessions are broadcast on state media, closed sessions such as this one are not.
Tehran insists nuclear program is peaceful
The controversy at the session arose as a result of negotiations between Iran and six world powers – the United States, permanent UN security Council members and Germany – related to Iran’s nuclear program. A final deal has yet to be reached, although the June 30 deadline is fast approaching. Negotiators claim that it is unlikely the deadline will be met due to a raft of issues which still need to be addressed.
Under the terms of the proposed deal, Iran’s nuclear program would be frozen for a decade. In return, Western economic sanctions would be lifted. Iran insists that its nuclear program has nothing to do with a quest to develop nuclear weapons, and is focused on non-military objectives such as power generation, cancer treatment and medical research.
The video allows us an insight into the divisions within Iran’s political class, and reveals how much work there is to be done in order to reach a settlement with Tehran.
