Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani: A Life of Leadership and Reform


Full Name and Common Aliases


Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani was a prominent Iranian politician who served as the President of Iran from 1989 to 1997. He is also known as Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani or simply Rafsanjani.

Birth and Death Dates


Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani was born on August 25, 1934, in Bahreman, Iran. He passed away on January 8, 2017, at the age of 82.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Rafsanjani was an Iranian national and a politician who held various positions throughout his career, including President, Speaker of the Parliament (Majlis), and Chairman of the Expediency Council.

Early Life and Background


Born in the village of Bahreman in Kerman Province, Rafsanjani came from a humble background. His family was relatively poor, but they valued education highly. Rafsanjani's interest in Islamic studies led him to pursue a degree in theology at the Qom Seminary, where he became acquainted with influential Iranian clerics.

Major Accomplishments


Rafsanjani played a significant role in shaping Iran's post-revolutionary era. As President, he implemented policies aimed at revitalizing the country's economy and promoting social welfare programs. He also oversaw the reconstruction of cities and infrastructure damaged during the Iran-Iraq War. Additionally, Rafsanjani facilitated the development of Iran's nuclear program.

Notable Works or Actions


One of Rafsanjani's notable achievements was his efforts to normalize relations between Iran and Western countries. During his presidency, he engaged in diplomatic initiatives with European leaders, seeking to ease sanctions and improve trade ties. He also promoted greater transparency in government operations, encouraging accountability and oversight within the executive branch.

Impact and Legacy


Rafsanjani's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While some view him as a champion of reform and modernization, others criticize his handling of human rights abuses and suppression of dissent during his presidency. Nevertheless, he remains an influential figure in Iranian politics, with many regarding him as a pragmatic leader who navigated the country through turbulent times.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani's quotes and statements continue to be relevant today due to their insight into Iran's domestic and foreign policies. His words offer valuable perspectives on the complexities of Middle Eastern politics, making him a widely quoted figure among scholars, journalists, and policymakers.

Throughout his career, Rafsanjani demonstrated an ability to balance competing interests and navigate the intricacies of Iranian politics. His quotes often reflect this pragmatism, providing nuanced insights into the challenges facing Iran and its relations with the global community.

As a leader who shaped Iran's modern history, Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani remains an important figure in contemporary international affairs. His legacy serves as a reminder of the complexities of Iranian politics and the ongoing quest for reform and stability within the country.

Quotes by Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani

The problem is that the Iraqi people are facing atrocities from both sides – Zarqawi and also the American troops at times. The Zarqawi groups uses car bombs, the Americans use other bombs. You also know what they do in the prisons.
"
The problem is that the Iraqi people are facing atrocities from both sides – Zarqawi and also the American troops at times. The Zarqawi groups uses car bombs, the Americans use other bombs. You also know what they do in the prisons.
We don’t have any bad memories of the people of the United States.
"
We don’t have any bad memories of the people of the United States.
We don’t have a major problem right now in our country, and life is normal. Things like unemployment, which the youth are suffering from, and the rate of inflation – these are chronic conditions and we have to solve them.
"
We don’t have a major problem right now in our country, and life is normal. Things like unemployment, which the youth are suffering from, and the rate of inflation – these are chronic conditions and we have to solve them.
We did not treat the Americans badly. They left Iran in a relaxed mood. The embassy was active here after the revolution. We didn’t have any problem with them. They started it.
"
We did not treat the Americans badly. They left Iran in a relaxed mood. The embassy was active here after the revolution. We didn’t have any problem with them. They started it.
When I talk about the assets, that was at the beginning of the talks. I was president then. I’m not president now. When I said it, this would be a sign of goodwill to begin the talks.
"
When I talk about the assets, that was at the beginning of the talks. I was president then. I’m not president now. When I said it, this would be a sign of goodwill to begin the talks.
I have no idea what the U.S. intends to do further there and what would be the reaction of the Iraqi people. I only know that the sole option is to leave Iraq to the Iraqi people.
"
I have no idea what the U.S. intends to do further there and what would be the reaction of the Iraqi people. I only know that the sole option is to leave Iraq to the Iraqi people.
The possibility of a war under the current circumstances is not far-fetched and there is some evidence for that.
"
The possibility of a war under the current circumstances is not far-fetched and there is some evidence for that.
If (the West) shows its rigidity by making unjust decisions and putting their threats into practice, the Iranian people will not be the only ones to pay the price.
"
If (the West) shows its rigidity by making unjust decisions and putting their threats into practice, the Iranian people will not be the only ones to pay the price.
Im not satisfied with the progress of the work, but I am happy that the talks are going on. It might have a negative effect if the United States joins.
"
Im not satisfied with the progress of the work, but I am happy that the talks are going on. It might have a negative effect if the United States joins.
This democracy... The elections in Iraq were held despite the American opposition. It was the will of the Iraqi people and the religious authorities. [The elections] were the result of pressure by Ayatollah Sistani, by the Iraqi religious authorities, and by the fighting forces in Iraq on America. They left the US no choice but to allow the elections.
"
This democracy... The elections in Iraq were held despite the American opposition. It was the will of the Iraqi people and the religious authorities. [The elections] were the result of pressure by Ayatollah Sistani, by the Iraqi religious authorities, and by the fighting forces in Iraq on America. They left the US no choice but to allow the elections.
Showing 1 to 10 of 37 results