Trump may see himself in Ahmadinejad but having him lead Iran was a perplexing idea
Former Iranian president has a populist, headline-grabbing communication style but is an avowed anti-Zionist. How could Israel see him as a man to do business with?
TL;DR
- Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Iran's former president, shares a populist communication style and autocratic governing tendencies with Donald Trump.
- Reports indicate the US and Israel considered Ahmadinejad as a potential leader for Iran after an expected regime collapse.
- An Israeli strike on February 28th, intended to free Ahmadinejad from house arrest, killed guards and injured him, leading to his disappearance.
- Ahmadinejad, an avowed anti-Zionist, previously called for Israel's destruction and resumed Iran's nuclear program, contributing to tensions.
- Some insiders suggest Ahmadinejad underwent a 'transformation' after leaving office in 2013, becoming disenchanted with the Iranian regime.
- His alienation from the regime was evident when he was rejected three times from running for the presidency.
- Questions remain about his potential popularity and the motives behind leaking information about his alleged involvement.