In a dramatic move that has reignited debate over public accountability in Iran, President Masoud Pezeshkian has dismissed Vice President Shahram Dabiri following a controversial private trip to Antarctica—one he called “indefensible” as the nation battles a prolonged and painful economic crisis.
Dabiri, 64, a physician and political ally of the president, embarked on an extravagant holiday during the Iranian New Year (Nowruz), visiting Argentina before boarding the Plancius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship offering Antarctic expeditions priced at approximately £3,300 per person. Photos shared on Instagram, believed to be posted by his wife, documented the couple’s stops in Buenos Aires, Paris, Rome, and Tbilisi. The account was made private shortly after the images drew widespread public backlash.
“In recent days, after reviewing the news, it was confirmed that during Nowruz, you were on a leisure trip to Antarctica,” President Pezeshkian wrote in a formal letter published by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA). “In a context where economic pressure on the population remains high… expensive leisure trips by officials, even if paid out of their own pocket, are neither defensible nor justifiable. Therefore, we can no longer continue our cooperation with you in the government.”
The dismissal underscores growing pressure on the Iranian government to hold high-ranking officials to account, particularly as ordinary citizens face soaring inflation, rising unemployment, and the rapid devaluation of the rial—which has lost over 50% of its value in the last year.
Dabiri had been appointed as vice president in August 2024, despite controversy surrounding his past arrest and imprisonment on corruption charges while serving as head of the local council in Tabriz, northwestern Iran. His dismissal is the first major public sacking under President Pezeshkian’s administration.
No Constitutional Breach, But Political Fallout
Under Iran’s Constitution, vice presidents are appointed directly by the president and do not require parliamentary approval. While Dabiri’s trip did not violate any legal provisions, it was seen as tone-deaf given the country’s dire financial situation. President Pezeshkian, who publicly disclosed his monthly salary of around £600 following his election, was elected on promises to combat economic inequality and government excess.
With Iranian vice presidents earning under £7,000 annually, the revelation of Dabiri’s lavish travel expenses raised eyebrows. Dabiri has not publicly commented on the source of funding for his trip or his dismissal, though a source close to him insisted the expenses were covered personally and unrelated to his political role.
Critics argue that the regime’s advocacy for “simple living” is enforced only for the general population, while government elites live in stark contrast. “It’s a double standard,” said one political analyst. “The symbolism of such a trip during Nowruz, when millions of Iranians are tightening their belts, is damaging.”
Backdrop of Economic Turmoil
The scandal comes as Iran faces what many economists describe as the most severe economic downturn in its modern history. Mismanagement, longstanding corruption, and crippling international sanctions have battered the economy. In early March, Parliament voted to impeach Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati amid public frustration over surging prices and currency depreciation.
Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index scored Iran just 24 out of 100 in 2023, ranking it 149th out of 180 countries—a reflection of widespread institutional distrust.
President Pezeshkian’s administration has pledged to improve living conditions and tackle inequality, but the Dabiri scandal may cast doubt on the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
Public and Political Backlash
The reaction to Dabiri’s trip was swift and widespread, with public figures and members of the president’s own circle calling for his removal. “At a time when families are struggling to afford basic necessities, this kind of elite behavior is not just inappropriate—it’s insulting,” said a member of Parliament who requested anonymity.
The episode mirrors recent controversies in other nations over officials’ travel habits. In Argentina, President Javier Milei recently instructed ministers to avoid luxury vacations, citing public perception. Similarly, former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair, David Cameron, and Boris Johnson faced scrutiny for holidaying in opulent locations.
Though Dabiri’s trip did not breach the law, the political fallout could have lasting implications. For President Pezeshkian, the sacking signals a willingness to draw a line—but also a reminder of the deep-rooted challenges his administration must confront.
As Iran seeks to navigate its way out of economic turmoil, restoring public confidence through transparent governance and accountability remains a critical test.
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