Abbas Araghchi in political crisis? Lawmakers submit impeachment motion against Iran's Foreign Minister — here’s why

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is facing impeachment over his US diplomatic talks, sparking a political backlash at home. Lawmakers registered an impeachment motion against Araghchi for his contacts with US officials in New York, questioning his authority to negotiate for Iran. Ali Khezrian, a member of the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, accused Araghchi of holding unauthorized talks with American officials.

The foreign minister will face scrutiny from parliament after returning from New York. Iranian reports suggest another MP also registered the impeachment request. The impeachment comes days after Iran and the US reopened a diplomatic channel, with Araghchi communicating with US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner during mediated talks.

US officials viewed the exchanges positively, while Iran stressed its use of contacts to communicate conditions for ending the conflict. The controversy highlights conflicting accounts of Iran’s negotiating authority, with some arguing the delegation had "full authority" while others claim Araghchi exceeded his mandate. The dispute emerged publicly when IRGC-affiliated media and lawmakers questioned the authorization of direct contact with Witkoff.

The situation could prove critical in determining how far Iran's diplomats can go in negotiations, especially as Washington and Tehran remain divided over the steps needed to end the war. Iran wants the US naval blockade lifted and has linked progress to easing American pressure, while the US demands specific assurances before reducing military and economic pressure.

The New York contacts have reopened diplomacy but also exposed internal disagreements within Iran's political establishment over who controls the talks and what Iran is authorized to concede.