Inside Iran’s Preparation for War and Plans for Survival

New York Times - WorldEN 8 min read 100% complete by Farnaz FassihiFebruary 22, 2026 at 06:52 AM

AI Summary

long article 8 min

In early January 2026, amidst nationwide protests and escalating tensions with the United States, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei entrusted Ali Larijani, the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, with broad authority to manage the country. Larijani, a veteran politician and former Revolutionary Guards commander, has since taken charge of suppressing dissent, maintaining relationships with allies, overseeing nuclear negotiations, and developing war contingency plans. His expanded role has effectively sidelined President Masoud Pezeshkian. Larijani's responsibilities include preparing Iran for potential conflict with the United States, which has been amassing forces in the region. This information is based on interviews with Iranian officials, Revolutionary Guards members, former diplomats, and Iranian news reports.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Oman 40% Farnaz Fassihi ×240% Qatar ×250% Russia 50% Masoud Pezeshkian 60% Islamic Republic 60% United States ×270% Revolutionary Guards Corps ×270% Supreme National Security Council ×275% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×285% Iran ×490% Ali Larijani ×695%

Keywords

iran 100% war preparation 90% national security 80% ali larijani 80% supreme national security council 70% united states 60% ayatollah ali khamenei 60% nuclear negotiations 50% islamic rule 40%