An Iranian lawmaker has accused the son of First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref of holding German citizenship, saying that the appointment of Aref in President Masoud Pezeshkian’s government is therefore “illegal.”
Hamid Rasai made the remarks during Sunday’s parliamentary session without providing evidence, reviving hardline criticism over dual nationality among senior officials.
“First I spoke directly with Mr. Aref and told him that if you have any plan to revoke your child’s German citizenship, we will remain silent and wait. He replied: ‘No, I do not interfere in my children’s affairs'," Rasai told the parliament.
"I told him: ‘Mr. Aref, the law interferes in our affairs.’ After that, I filed the matter. Why is it not being pursued after six months? The Court of Audit has also confirmed the issue.”
The remarks come amid ongoing efforts by Iran’s ultra-conservatives to undermine Pezeshkian’s cabinet and figures such as former foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who has faced similar scrutiny over his son’s US citizenship.
A 2022 law prohibits individuals with dual nationality -- or those whose spouses or children hold it -- from occupying “sensitive positions,” though Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s office has previously signaled flexibility, saying automatic citizenship by birth abroad should not disqualify officials.
Despite that, hardliners have continued to challenge the government over the issue, viewing it as part of a broader fight against Pezeshkian’s reformist-leaning team.
