TEHRAN – Mohammad Mokhber, Iran’s former vice president and acting president, has been appointed as an advisor to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. 

The appointment was announced on Monday in a directive issued by Ayatollah Khamenei, who cited Mokhber's "committed and influential services" in management and economics, particularly during his time in the administration of the late President Ebrahim Raisi. 

In his decree, the Leader expressed his confidence in Mokhber's ability to serve in this new role and wished him success. 

Early life and career

Mokhber was born in 1955 in Dezful, Khuseztan. He holds two PhDs, one in international law and one in management and economic development planning.

Mokhber's career in the Iranian political and economic landscape spans over four decades. He started as a medical officer in the IRGC during the Iran-Iraq War. When the war ended, he transitioned into the telecommunications sector and government administration, becoming the CEO of Khuzestan Telecommunication Company and later the deputy governor of his home province. 

After acting as a provincial official for several years, Mokhber’s first national tenure began in the early 2000s when he became the Vice President of the Mostazafan Foundation. In 2007, he was appointed head of the Execution of Imam Khomeini's Order (EIKO), a role he held for 16 years. Under his leadership, EIKO spearheaded numerous privatization efforts and played a role in Iran's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mokhber helped develop “Barekat”, Iran’s domestically produced COVID-19 vaccine. 

In 2021, he was appointed First Vice President of Iran by President Ebrahim Raisi. Mokhber focused on strengthening Iran's economy, particularly sectors that could counter Western sanctions.

Following the tragic passing of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash this past May, 69-year-old Mohammad Mokhber stepped into the role of acting president, facing an unprecedented challenge. He is widely credited with managing the transition smoothly and effectively leading the Raisi administration during this difficult time. Mokhber also declined calls to seek the presidency in the subsequent snap election, choosing instead to prioritize the country's well-being during this crucial period before a new president was chosen.

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution personally thanked Mokhber for his efforts as the acting president, when he held his last meeting with the Raisi administration in July.

“I want to especially acknowledge Mr. Mokhber for his partnership with Mr. Raisi during these three years. He faced numerous challenges and difficulties, but he remained committed and worked well with the late Mr. Raisi and the government. In these last forty to fifty days, while serving as the acting president, he has truly excelled, putting in a tremendous amount of effort and pursuing tasks with great diligence. He took to heart the idea that ‘everything should be completed by the last day.’”