Iran's leadership structure has undergone significant changes following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Israeli airstrikes at the beginning of the current conflict. His son, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has succeeded him, though he has remained out of public view amid reports he was wounded in the same strikes.

Power now appears to be concentrated in the Supreme National Security Council, a body that includes Iran's top civilian and military officials. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has emerged as the council's primary spokesperson and chief negotiator with the United States in ongoing talks mediated by Pakistan.

The council includes figures representing different political factions, including reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian and hardline Revolutionary Guard commanders. This diversity has created potential for disagreements over how much Iran should concede in negotiations, particularly regarding U.S. demands for major restrictions on Iran's nuclear program.

Tensions within the leadership became visible over the weekend regarding control of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Iran was opening the strait to commercial traffic as part of a ceasefire agreement, but the military later announced it was reclosing the passage after President Trump said the U.S. would maintain its blockade.

The negotiations present a test for Iran's new power structure as it balances pressure from economic sanctions and military strikes against domestic opposition to compromise. Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz gives it leverage over global oil prices, while the country's deteriorating economy under sanctions increases pressure to reach an agreement.

Qalibaf's position as negotiator stems from his relationships across Iran's political spectrum, including ties to both the Revolutionary Guard and reformist politicians. His ability to maintain support from different factions could prove crucial as Iran navigates the complex negotiations with the United States.