Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif released a statement shortly after Khamenei’s speech went to air, in which he again reiterated his apology for his comments in the audio file, which he added were not meant for public dissemination but part of an oral history project. Zarif added that “the compassionate statements of the Supreme Leader are always the final word for me and my colleagues”. While rumours circulate about Zarif’s future – his resignation, dismissal or even possible impeachment – the Foreign Minister’s statement indicates his intention to keep working in his present role. It is unclear how it will affect any intentions he may have to run for President, especially since the Reform Front named him as their first preferred candidate just hours before Khamenei spoke.
