Mohammad Mokhber was born on June 26, 1955, in the city of Dezful, located in Iran’s southwestern province of Khuzestan. Growing up in a region known for its historical significance and cultural heritage, Mokhber’s early life was deeply influenced by his surroundings. He pursued a comprehensive educational path, reflecting his diverse interests and dedication to academia.
Mokhber holds two doctoral degrees: one in international law and another in management, showcasing his dual commitment to legal and administrative disciplines. Additionally, he has a background in electrical engineering, further broadening his expertise.
Career Highlights
Military Service During the Iran-Iraq War: Mokhber’s career began in a period of intense national conflict. During the Iran-Iraq War, he served as an officer in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) medical corps. His involvement in the war provided him with significant leadership experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of military and emergency operations.
Telecommunications and Provincial Leadership: In the 1990s, Mokhber transitioned into telecommunications and provincial administration. He was appointed CEO of Dezful Telecommunications, where he oversaw the development and expansion of communication networks in the region. His success in this role led to his promotion as the deputy governor of Khuzestan Province, where he played a critical role in regional governance and development.
Banking Sector Leadership: In the early 2000s, Mokhber shifted his focus to the financial sector. He was appointed chairman of Sina Bank, a position he held for nearly a decade. During his tenure, Mokhber implemented significant reforms and strategies that strengthened the bank’s financial standing and expanded its operations, making it a key player in Iran’s banking industry.
Leadership of the Execution of Imam Khomeini’s Order (EIKO): In 2007, Mokhber took on a pivotal role as the head of the Execution of Imam Khomeini’s Order (EIKO), one of Iran’s largest charitable organizations. Under his leadership, EIKO expanded its reach and influence, engaging in numerous development projects and social welfare programs across the country. Mokhber’s tenure at EIKO solidified his reputation as a capable and effective leader in managing large-scale organizations.
First Vice President of Iran: Mokhber’s extensive experience and proven leadership led to his appointment as Iran’s first vice president by President Ebrahim Raisi in August 2021. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing significant government development projects and representing Iran in various international forums. His work as vice president further demonstrated his ability to navigate complex political and administrative challenges.
Sanctions and Legal Challenges
Throughout his career, Mokhber has faced international scrutiny. In 2010, he was sanctioned by the European Union for alleged involvement in Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Despite these allegations, Mokhber was later removed from the sanctions list, allowing him to continue his influential roles within Iran without the burden of these legal restrictions.
Assuming the Role of Acting President: The sudden and tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash thrust Mokhber into the role of acting president of Iran. As stipulated by the Iranian constitution, Mokhber will serve as interim president until new elections are held within 50 days. A Temporary Presidential Council, including the Speaker of the Assembly and the Head of Judiciary, will oversee the transition during this period.
Mokhber’s appointment as acting president received the crucial endorsement of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This approval highlights Mokhber’s strong connections with the supreme leader’s office and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, reflecting his deep integration into Iran’s political and military elite. His extensive experience in managing large-scale executive affairs was a significant factor in his selection as interim president.
Mohammad Mokhber’s journey from his early days in Dezful to his current position as Iran’s interim president is marked by a lifetime of service and leadership. His diverse career, spanning military service, telecommunications, provincial governance, banking, and charitable organizations, demonstrates his versatility and commitment to his country.
With the country currently embroiled in geopolitical turbulence involving Israel, the United States, and others, this critical transitional period has thrust Mokhber into the spotlight of global politics, and his experience and leadership will be critical in guiding the nation towards stability and continuity from where Ebrahim Raisi left off.
