In a decisive move, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has dismissed his deputy, Shahram Dabiri, following backlash over a "lavish" Antarctic cruise he took with his wife during Nowruz, the Persian New Year. President Pezeshkian's office condemned the trip as “unjustifiable”, especially considering Iran's economic difficulties, exacerbated by Western sanctions linked to the nation's support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Photos of Dabiri on the MV Plancius, a ship bound for the icy continent, sparked outrage on social media, drawing attention to the disconnect between the government and the struggles of ordinary Iranians. In his statement, Pezeshkian emphasized that such extravagant travels are inexcusable, even if self-funded, highlighting the need for simplicity among officials in tough economic times.
With inflation at 29.5% and unemployment around 8.4%, the president's actions resonate with a populace weary of government extravagance. The Antarctic cruise reportedly starts at a hefty $6,685, traditionally reserved for researchers rather than tourists. Pezeshkian's administration, which seeks to uplift the economy after the passing of Ebrahim Raisi, faces increasing pressure to show accountability as public frustration grows over lavish expenditures among officials during a time of significant economic distress.
Photos of Dabiri on the MV Plancius, a ship bound for the icy continent, sparked outrage on social media, drawing attention to the disconnect between the government and the struggles of ordinary Iranians. In his statement, Pezeshkian emphasized that such extravagant travels are inexcusable, even if self-funded, highlighting the need for simplicity among officials in tough economic times.
With inflation at 29.5% and unemployment around 8.4%, the president's actions resonate with a populace weary of government extravagance. The Antarctic cruise reportedly starts at a hefty $6,685, traditionally reserved for researchers rather than tourists. Pezeshkian's administration, which seeks to uplift the economy after the passing of Ebrahim Raisi, faces increasing pressure to show accountability as public frustration grows over lavish expenditures among officials during a time of significant economic distress.
