Former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has proposed a referendum on whether to end the ongoing conflict, urging that the war should be brought to a close if the majority of the public desires it.

According to the British daily The Telegraph on September 8, Rouhani stated at a recent event, "It is most important that we first clearly define the framework of our national goals and present them to the public," adding, "If the people accept it, we will gladly continue the war, but if they do not, what reason do we have not to accept that?"

Although he did not explicitly use the word "referendum," local Iranian media interpreted his remarks as a de facto call for a public vote.

Rouhani also pointed out, "To repair the damage of war and give hope to young people and investors, we must end the war honorably in accordance with the will of the majority of the citizens," noting that "the tiny minority currently holding the microphone and making noise do not represent the sentiment of all of Iran."

He served as president from 2013 to 2021 and played a major role in achieving the Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

As one of the prominent politicians representing Iran's moderate pragmatic faction, he became a target for hardliners in Iran after the nuclear deal effectively collapsed following the unilateral withdrawal by U.S. President Donald Trump in 2018.

Regarding these recent remarks, the hardline Iranian Fars News Agency criticized them, stating, "These are not words born out of simple ignorance; he knows precisely what he is saying," and calling them "dangerous remarks that can by no means be overlooked."

Under the Iranian Constitution, a referendum can be held on critical legislation, major national issues, and constitutional amendments through a parliamentary resolution and the approval of the Supreme Leader.

Referendums have been held twice during the establishment of the Islamic Republic system immediately after the Islamic Revolution in 1979, and once in 1989 regarding the adjustment of the Supreme Leader's powers.

(Photo: Iranian Presidential Office/AP, Yonhap News)