Iranian President Dismisses Deputy Over Controversial Antarctic Vacation

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has dismissed Shahram Dabiri, a deputy accused of taking a lavish Antarctic cruise with his wife, amidst significant economic hardships for the country. The trip, deemed "unjustifiable," sparked outrage and calls for accountability from the public, highlighting the tension between government officials' lifestyles and citizens' economic struggles.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has taken swift action against Shahram Dabiri, one of his deputy officials, who faced backlash for embarking on an extravagant Antarctic cruise with his wife during the Nowruz celebrations, marking the Persian New Year. The president's office described this trip as "unjustifiable and unacceptable" in light of ongoing economic difficulties faced by the nation.

Images of Dabiri and his spouse aboard the MV Plancius, bound for the South Pole, circulated widely on social media, triggering outrage among the Iranian populace. In his statement, President Pezeshkian expressed his dismay over the "indefensible" actions of Dabiri, regardless of whether the trip was funded personally.

"The principles of simplicity are paramount for those in authority, especially during significant economic pressures on our citizens,” he stated. Iran's economy is currently grappling with heavy sanctions and ongoing struggles, including an unemployment rate of 8.4% and a soaring inflation rate of 29.5%.

The Antarctic cruise, which began at a starting price of approximately $6,685, is typically reserved for seasoned explorers and scientists. However, the vessel used in Dabiri's excursion, the MV Plancius, is popular with tourists, having previously served in military and civilian research roles for the Royal Netherlands Navy.

Details surrounding Dabiri's specific travel arrangements remain unclear; however, prospective travelers usually commence their journeys from Ushuaia, a remote Argentinian location approximately 3,079 kilometers from Buenos Aires.

President Pezeshkian, elected last year on promises to bolster the economy and enhance living standards for Iranians, has faced strong calls from his supporters to hold officials accountable for their actions as public dissatisfaction grows over perceived government excesses.