Larijani often held a hardline view on the nuclear standoff between Iran and the West but was considered to be a more moderate figure than Ahmadinejad. He was seen as more committed to a diplomatic solution over Iran’s nuclear program while Ahmadinejad is not seen as favoring talks with the West.
Larijani’s resignation was interpreted by many here as giving Ahmadinejad a free hand in dictating his views.
Elham did not give a specific reason for Larijani’s resignation other than to say he wanted to focus on other political activities.
The United States and some of its allies accuse Iran of secretly trying to develop nuclear weapons. Iran denies this, saying its program is for peaceful purposes including generating electricity.
Elham stressed that Iran’s nuclear policy would not change because of Larijani’s resignation.
"Iran’s nuclear policies are stabilized and unchangeable. Managerial change won’t bring any changes in (those) policies," Elham said.
He said a meeting between the nuclear negotiator and the European Union foreign policy chief, Javier Solana, scheduled for Tuesday in Rome would still take place.
John Bolton, former U.S. ambassador to the U.N., said Larijani’s resignation was a clear victory for Ahmadinejad and shows that the leadership is determined to continue with nuclear program including uranium enrichment.