The Rise and Fall of Iran’s Ultra-Conservative Endurance Front
For years, a network of ultra-conservative figures infiltrated Iran’s political landscape, wielding significant power and influence. The Endurance Front, a party formed in 2014, managed to derail a nuclear deal and control key decision-making centers until recently.
However, the unexpected death of President Ebrahim Raisi, influenced by the party, shifted the dynamics. As the Endurance Front’s power waned, internal rifts emerged, leading to a hostile environment challenging its agenda.
The Godfathers
The Endurance Front traces back to a rift between Ayatollah Khamenei and former President Ahmadinejad in 2011. Influential figures like Ayatollah Mesbah Yazdi and Ayatollah Khoshvaght played key roles in the group’s formation.
Disagreements and Divisions
The Endurance Front clashed with traditional conservatives over matters like the JCPOA, leading to divisions and two distinct factions within the group. The Tehran branch pursued power pragmatically, while the Qom branch followed Mesbah Yazdi’s radical ideology.
Influence on Policy and Purification
The party influenced policy decisions, obstructing the JCPOA revival and advocating for socially restrictive laws. Their purification efforts involved sidelining individuals like Ali Larijani and targeting potential rivals within the conservative camp.
The Fight for Succession
The Endurance Front eyed succession post-Khamenei, but Raisi’s demise disrupted their plans. Rival factions within the group, including supporters of Mojtaba Yazdi and Mohammad Mirbaqeri, vied for power.
Last Chance and Decline
Following Raisi’s death, the Endurance Front backed Jalili for the presidency, facing resistance from the establishment. Jalili’s defeat marked a significant setback for the party, signaling its potential sideline from Iranian politics.