Saeed Jalili

Saeed Jalili, born on September sixth, nineteen sixty-five, is a prominent Iranian politician and diplomat known for his significant role in the country's political landscape. He served as the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council from two thousand seven to two thousand thirteen, during which he became a key figure in Iran's nuclear negotiations. Currently, he is a member of the Expediency Discernment Council, continuing to influence Iranian policy.

Jalili's political career includes serving as the deputy foreign minister for European and American Affairs. He has made several attempts to secure the presidency, placing third in the June two thousand thirteen election and later withdrawing from the two thousand twenty-one race in favor of Ebrahim Raisi. Most recently, he contested the two thousand twenty-four presidential election but was defeated by Masoud Pezeshkian in a runoff.

A veteran of the Iran–Iraq War, Jalili lost part of his right leg during the Siege of Basra, earning him the title of 'Living Martyr.' He holds a PhD in political science and teaches a course on 'Prophet's diplomacy' at Imam Sadiq University. His uncompromising approach as chief negotiator on Iran's nuclear program has been a defining aspect of his career.

Known for his hardline positions and confrontational rhetoric towards the West, Jalili advocates for stronger ties with Russia and China. Supported by the fundamentalist Paydari Front, he attributes Iran's economic challenges to international sanctions and opposes social liberalization, which has garnered him both significant influence and discomfort among more pragmatic factions within the Iranian establishment.