The Life and Legacy of Mohsen Rafighdoost: A Key Figure in Revolutionary Guards

Introduction

Mohsen Rafighdoost (also spelled Rafiqdoust) is a renowned Iranian Revolutionary Guards officer and conservative politician who has played a significant role in shaping Iran’s political landscape since the 1979 Iranian Revolution. A prominent member of the Islamic Coalition Party, Rafighdoost is known for his dedication to the principles of the Islamic Revolution and his extensive military and business experience.

Early Life: Roots in South Tehran

Born around 1940 in south Tehran, Rafighdoost hails from a bazaari family—the traditional merchant class integral to Iran’s economy. His father was a fruit and vegetable merchant at the bustling Tehran bazaar, and Rafighdoost’s upbringing was steeped in the religious values of his family, which had strong ties to Ruhollah Khomeini, the leader of the Iranian Revolution.

Rafighdoost’s journey took a political turn in 1953 when he was expelled from secondary school due to his pro-Mossadegh activities. This early act of defiance indicates his commitment to the political changes that would later sweep Iran.