Vahid Haghanian Presidential Bid: The Mysterious Regime Insider Enters Iran’s Race

Vahid Haghanian presidential bid, known for his close ties to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has made a surprising entry into Iran’s presidential race. On June 1, Haghanian officially announced his candidacy at the Ministry of Interior’s election headquarters, showcasing his identification document to the cameras. This move marks his first foray into electoral politics, despite lacking any prior executive record. He emphasized that his decision to run was personal.

Vahid Haghanian’s Background and Rise to Power

Born in 1961 in Tehran, Vahid Haghanian joined the Islamic Revolutionary Committees after the 1979 revolution and quickly became part of the West Tehran Strike Groups, notorious for their brutal suppression of dissidents. By 1984, he had joined the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), eventually commanding the Sarallah Patrols in Tehran. His deep connection with Khamenei dates back to 1979-1980 when he served as a driver for key figures in the Islamic Republican Party, including Khamenei.

Haghanian’s ascent within the IRGC was rapid, despite his lack of formal military training. He held various significant positions, including as commander of the Navy Intelligence Unit and later, a role in the Quds Force during the Iran-Iraq War, where he sustained serious injuries.