Political Structure of Iran After Khamenei

To understand the impact of Khamenei’s death, it is essential to understand Iran’s unique political system.

The Islamic Republic of Iran operates under a hybrid political structure that combines religious authority with republican institutions.

At the center of this system is the Supreme Leader, the most powerful position in the country.

The Supreme Leader holds authority over:

• The Iranian Armed Forces

• Foreign policy strategy

• State broadcasting networks

• The judiciary system

• Key national security decisions

When Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, died in 1989, Ali Khamenei was chosen by the Assembly of Experts to become the next Supreme Leader.

This assembly, composed of Islamic scholars elected by the public, will again play a crucial role in selecting Iran’s next leader.