Iran Appoints New Finance Minister Amid Economic Crisis and Conflict with Israel

Iran has appointed Ali Madani Zadeh as the new Finance Minister to address rising inflation, falling currency value, and worsening economic problems. His appointment was approved by the Cabinet on Monday.

Madani Zadeh, 43, replaces former Finance Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati, who was removed from office a few months ago after being blamed for failing to handle Iran’s growing economic crisis.

According to state TV, Madani Zadeh received 171 votes in favor and 61 against in the 290-member parliament. Eight members were absent during the vote.

Iran’s economy has been under serious pressure for years, mainly due to tough U.S. sanctions, which have caused high inflation and sharp rises in consumer prices.

In January, former U.S. President Donald Trump reintroduced a “maximum pressure” sanctions campaign against Iran, worsening its economic struggles.

Adding to the crisis, Iran is now facing escalating regional tensions with Israel. On Friday, Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran, targeting military bases, nuclear sites, and residential areas.

The attacks killed at least 224 people, including top military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. In response, Iran launched drones and missiles at Israel, reportedly killing at least 24 people, according to the latest figures from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office.

Iran has long refused to recognize Israel and accuses it of sabotaging its nuclear program and assassinating its scientists.

With the economy in deep trouble and conflict intensifying, Iran was under pressure to bring in new leadership to find quick solutions.