By the 1930s, Ettelaat had grown into the most widely circulated daily newspaper in Iran. Its success not only elevated Masoudi’s status as a journalist but also brought him into close contact with government officials, ministers, and even the royal court. This relationship between media and state power would become a defining feature of Masoudi’s career.
Entry into Politics: Member of the National Assembly
Masoudi’s rising influence as a journalist and publisher opened the door to politics. In 1935, during the reign of Reza Shah, he entered the National Assembly (Majles) as the representative of Tehran in its 10th term. He retained his seat until the 15th term, a period that spanned the turbulent years of World War II and the abdication of Reza Shah in 1941.
Masoudi’s role in parliament reflected the increasingly intertwined worlds of journalism and politics. He was not merely an observer reporting on the state; he was an active participant in shaping its direction. His position also gave him leverage to protect and expand Ettelaat, which became an indispensable part of Iran’s political landscape.
