Analysis: [Rafsanjani] long served as a balance in the extremes of Iranian political thought, a go-between for reformers who seek outreach to the world and hard-liners who press for confrontation with the West. Without his behind-the-scenes influence advocating pragmatism, some fear that one side may feel free to try to overcome the other - in particular, that hard-liners could take off the gloves against moderates who have made gains in recent years. – Associated Press
Reuel Marc Gerecht and Ray Takeyh write: Today Rafsanjani is mourned and his former deputy esteemed by the same men and women as godfathers of their possible salvation. Rafsanjani, blessed with a searing wit and a good sense of history, surely appreciated this delightful irony before his weak heart stopped his brilliant mind from plotting against his many enemies. – Washington Post
Gerecht and Ali Alfoneh write: Rafsanjani…was the dark prince, who through stratagem, ruthlessness, and terror rose to the apex of power. Only when equally ruthless men dethroned and marginalized him did he become a proponent of political freedom. – The Weekly Standard Blog