A letter claiming that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has resigned went viral on social media recently. The message, allegedly addressed to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, was widely shared and translated into several languages, fueling speculation that Pezeshkian had stepped down amid increasing international pressure and reports of foreign military attacks. Our investigation into the origin of this claim reveals it has no basis in reality.
Social Media Posts
Social media posts circulated a letter purportedly written by President Masoud Pezeshkian, in which he allegedly announced his resignation.
Below is an unofficial English translation of the viral letter, which was widely circulated online:
“In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Your Excellency Ayatollah Khamenei,
Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran,
I respectfully submit my resignation as the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran to you, with deep regret and after extensive reflection.
Given the recent developments, the Zionist regime’s aggressive actions against the Islamic homeland and the United States’ joining of this front, and in light of the official policies of the Islamic Republic—as conveyed by Your Eminence’s guidance—these actions have led the country down a path beyond control and personal responsibility.
I no longer find myself capable of continuing my duties in this position in a way that serves the interests of the nation and the people.
My resignation represents the last breath of a humble servant of the system. I hope that this decision provides an opportunity for reform, reconciliation, and the restoration of peace and justice to our beloved country.
I pray to Almighty God for your continued health and honor, and for Iran’s dignity, greatness, and enduring peace.
“I entrust my affair to God. Indeed, God is Seeing of [His] servants.”
Masoud Pezeshkian”
Fact-Check
According to Iran’s President website, there has been no update regarding any resignation. Additionally, there are no announcements from IRNA (Islamic Republic News Agency), PressTV, or any other official government channel confirming Pezeshkian’s resignation. On the contrary, recent news reports continue to refer to Pezeshkian in his active role as president, such as here and here.
Moreover, Shayan Sardarizadeh, senior journalist at BBC Verify, has addressed the claim via his X account, stating: “Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has not resigned and this is a completely fake document claiming to show his resignation letter to the supreme leader.”
Upon further investigation, we found that the signature used in the purported letter is identical to a 2024 document from Dr. Ebrahim Bay Salami’s Instagram account.
Background on Pezeshkian’s Presidency
Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist doctor who entered politics, became Iran’s president in July 2024 after winning an election against conservative candidate Saeed Jalili. His leadership represented a change from the previous hardline government toward more moderate policies, although voter participation was historically low.
Since taking office, he has focused on building a professional administration and bringing the country together. He’s appointed skilled experts to government positions and tried to work across political differences. Because of his moderate approach, he faces criticism from both conservatives within Iran and skepticism from international observers, particularly as tensions continue over Iran’s nuclear program. (Sources: Britannica, Politico)
Political Pressure: It’s true that Pezeshkian faces significant political challenges from both conservative hardliners and reform-minded supporters who expected faster changes. While he once mentioned that resignation might be an option if he couldn’t fulfill his promises, there is no evidence that he has actually taken this step. (Source: Iran International, Middle East Council)
Conclusion
Based on available evidence, the claim that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has resigned is false. The rumor stems from a fake resignation letter circulating online. No credible source has confirmed any official resignation. Pezeshkian remains in office as of June 2025.
