Masoud Pezeshkian

The complexities of Iran's ruling system, the ideological nature of its support base, and the power of its Revolutionary Guards make it hard to predict what might come next.

The Iranian reports did not explicitly mention President Masoud Pezeshkian's ability to carry out his political duties. 

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Outward appearances on the streets of Tehran have not changed, but there is internal anxiety.

Khalloul extended an invitation to the right-wing American commentator in early February, hoping to shed light on the true experience of Christians in Israel, but Carlson had failed to respond.

A TV reporter signed off on a live broadcast with “Marg bar Khamenei” (death to Khamenei) instead of one of the chants typically heard at one of the regime-backed rallies, such as "death to Israel."

“We are ashamed before the people. We are ready to hear the voice of the people," Iranian President Pezeshkian said in a speech during the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.

“Our logic on the nuclear issue is the explicit rights under the Non-Proliferation Treaty,” Pezeshkian said, adding that “the Iranian nation has always responded to respect with respect."

Anwar Gargash, advisor to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, said the Gulf state does not want to see another regional confrontation.

“At this point, if this doesn’t happen, it will only embolden the regime,” said Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman.