TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has named Kazem Gharibabadi as the new Deputy for Legal and International Affairs.

The decision, announced late Sunday night, is seen as a strategic move, given Gharibabadi’s extensive experience in both legal and international roles.

Gharibabadi’s previous roles include serving as the Deputy for International Affairs at the Judiciary and as Secretary of the Human Rights Headquarters, where he played a key role in advocating for Iran’s human rights positions on the global stage. 

Gharibabadi has also held key diplomatic posts, including serving as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Netherlands, and as Iran’s Permanent Representative to various international organizations based in The Hague. 

Additionally, he served as Iran’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna, a critical diplomatic hub, especially for Iran’s engagements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). 

His role in nuclear diplomacy has been pivotal, having worked as a Nuclear Affairs Advisor to the Foreign Minister and Secretary of the JCPOA Committee within Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

In a related development, Araghchi also announced the appointment of Reza Najafi, the former Deputy for Legal and International Affairs, as an advisor to the Foreign Minister. 

Najafi, who has served in various key diplomatic roles, will continue to offer his expertise to the ministry as Iran navigates its foreign policy challenges, particularly in light of international sanctions and complex geopolitical dynamics.