Islamabad: Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the man leading Iran’s delegation in the high-stakes peace talks with the United States in Pakistan’s capital, is a powerful and controversial figure in Iranian politics with deep roots in both the military and political establishment.
Ghalibaf currently serves as the Speaker of Iran’s Parliament and is heading a delegation to Islamabad, where negotiations are aimed at stabilising a fragile ceasefire and addressing key issues such as sanctions, nuclear policy, and regional conflict.
A former commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Ghalibaf rose through the ranks during the Iran-Iraq war and later held senior roles in Iran’s security apparatus. He also served as Tehran’s mayor from 2005 to 2017, a tenure marked by efforts to modernise the capital but also allegations of corruption.
Over the years, he has positioned himself as a conservative yet pragmatic leader, balancing hardline rhetoric with occasional openness to negotiations with the West. Analysts say this dual image makes him a key interlocutor in sensitive diplomatic efforts.
Ghalibaf has unsuccessfully contested Iran’s presidential elections multiple times, including in 2005, 2013 and 2024, and remains a prominent figure within the country’s conservative political camp.
Following political upheavals in Iran’s leadership structure, he has also been part of the country’s top decision-making circles, further enhancing his influence.
As head of Iran’s delegation in Islamabad, Ghalibaf is playing a central role in negotiations with the United States, alongside Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The talks are seen as a critical attempt to de-escalate tensions after weeks of conflict in the Middle East.
Despite his involvement, Ghalibaf is widely viewed as a hardliner, and Iran’s delegation includes several officials known for their tough stance against the West—signalling that negotiations may be challenging.
Ghalibaf’s has faced repeated allegations of corruption and has been criticised for his role in suppressing protests in Iran.
