Iran's Vice President: A Look At Power & Succession

Savanna Bartell 23 Jun 2025

In the intricate political landscape of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the position of the Vice President of Iran holds significant weight, often serving as a critical bridge between the President and various governmental organs. Far from being a singular office, the Iranian vice presidency encompasses a range of specialized roles, each tasked with overseeing specific aspects of presidential affairs and national policy. Recent events, particularly the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of President Ebrahim Raisi, have thrust this office, especially that of the First Vice President, into the global spotlight, underscoring its pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of governance and the stability of the nation.

Understanding the multifaceted nature of the Vice President of Iran requires delving into the constitutional framework that defines these roles, the individuals who have held them, and the critical junctures where their authority becomes paramount. From leading specialized organizations to stepping into the highest office during times of crisis, the Vice President's responsibilities are diverse and fundamental to the functioning of the Iranian state. This article will explore the constitutional basis, the various types of vice presidents, key figures, and the profound implications of their roles in both domestic governance and international relations.

Understanding the Role of the Vice President of Iran

The concept of the Vice President in Iran is not as straightforward as in many other political systems, where a single individual typically serves as the second-in-command. In Iran, the office is more decentralized, with multiple individuals holding the title of "Vice President" concurrently, each with a distinct portfolio. According to Article 124 of the Constitution of Iran, the "First Vice President of Iran (Persian: معاون اول رئیس‌جمهور ایران)" is specifically defined as anyone appointed by the President of Iran to lead an organization related to presidential affairs in Iran. This highlights the First Vice President's unique position at the apex of the vice-presidential hierarchy.

Beyond the First Vice President, the Constitution allows for the appointment of other Vice Presidents. These individuals are "politicians hired by the President of Iran to lead an organization related to Presidential activities." This broad definition allows the President to delegate authority across various sectors, from environmental protection to women's affairs, strategic planning, and more. As of August 2019, there were reportedly 12 Vice Presidents in Iran, illustrating the extensive scope of this administrative structure. Each of these Vice Presidents heads a specific department or organization, working directly under the President to implement policies and manage their respective domains. This system allows for specialized focus and efficient governance across a wide array of national priorities, ensuring that presidential initiatives are effectively translated into actionable policies and programs.

Constitutional Framework and Appointment

The appointment process for the Vice President of Iran, including the First Vice President, rests solely with the President. This executive power grants the President significant discretion in selecting individuals who align with their vision and policy objectives. Unlike some systems where vice presidents are elected or run on a joint ticket with the president, in Iran, these positions are purely appointed. This means that the loyalty and professional expertise of the appointees are key considerations for the President. The First Vice President, in particular, often serves as the President's chief of staff or principal deputy, coordinating the activities of other Vice Presidents and managing day-to-day presidential affairs. This appointed nature underscores the hierarchical structure of the Iranian executive branch, where the President holds ultimate authority, delegating specific responsibilities to a team of trusted deputies.

The First Vice President: A Pivotal Position

Among the various vice-presidential roles, the First Vice President of Iran holds a uniquely pivotal position, primarily due to their constitutional role in presidential succession. This individual is not merely a senior advisor or a departmental head; they are the designated successor in the event of the President's incapacitation or death in office. This critical function elevates the First Vice President far beyond the status of other Vice Presidents, making them a key figure in ensuring the continuity and stability of the Iranian government.

Under Article 131 of the Iranian Constitution, which was adopted in 1989, Iran’s First Vice President will assume acting presidential powers if a president dies in office. This constitutional provision is a cornerstone of Iran's governance structure, designed to prevent a power vacuum and facilitate a smooth transition during unforeseen circumstances. The recent events following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi tragically demonstrated the practical application of this article, bringing the role of the First Vice President into sharp focus on the international stage.

Succession in Action: The Case of Mohammad Mokhber

The helicopter crash on May 19, 2024, that killed President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, immediately triggered Article 131. Iran's First Vice President, Mohammad Mokhber, was appointed as acting president of the Islamic Republic on Monday, May 20, after the death of President Ebrahim Raisi. This swift transition underscored the importance of the First Vice President's role in maintaining governmental continuity. Iran’s Supreme Leader appointed Mokhber as the country’s acting president on Monday, May 20, 2024, solidifying his temporary leadership. Mokhber, who was the first person selected by former President Ebrahim Raisi after he took office, immediately stepped into the demanding role. As acting president, he quickly took charge, leading a cabinet meeting, as shown in a photo released by the Iranian First Vice President's office, where he is seen leading a cabinet session, now acting president of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Mohammad Mokhber is the seventh person to hold the office of First Vice President. His assumption of acting presidential powers also necessitated an extraordinary meeting with key figures in the Iranian judiciary and legislature. The former First Vice President held an extraordinary meeting with judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, to coordinate the transition and the process for new elections. This tripartite meeting is crucial for ensuring the smooth functioning of the state during an acting presidency and for setting the stage for the required presidential elections within 50 days, as mandated by the constitution. Mokhber's immediate actions demonstrated the preparedness of the Iranian system to handle such a crisis, with the First Vice President serving as the linchpin of stability.

Mohammad Mokhber: From First Vice President to Acting President

Mohammad Mokhber's elevation to acting president on May 20, 2024, following the tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi, brought a relatively less-known but highly influential figure into the global spotlight. Prior to this, Mokhber had served as the First Vice President under President Raisi, a role he assumed upon Raisi's inauguration. His appointment as First Vice President by Raisi marked him as a trusted and capable administrator, deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the presidency and the implementation of governmental policies.

Born in 1955, Mohammad Mokhber has a long and extensive career in various sectors of the Iranian establishment, particularly in economic and charitable organizations. Before becoming First Vice President, he served as the head of Setad, a powerful economic conglomerate under the direct control of the Supreme Leader. This background provided him with significant experience in managing large-scale economic entities and navigating complex administrative structures. His tenure at Setad, which manages properties confiscated after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, gave him a deep understanding of Iran's economic landscape and a network of connections within the country's powerful institutions. His appointment as First Vice President was seen as a move to bring an experienced economic manager into the executive branch, aligning with Raisi's focus on improving Iran's economy amidst sanctions and internal challenges.

Key Actions and Public Appearances

As First Vice President, Mohammad Mokhber was actively involved in various domestic and international engagements. For instance, on May 28, 2023, Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber welcomed Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq upon his arrival at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, Iran. This engagement highlights his role in diplomatic protocols and state visits, underscoring the First Vice President's involvement in Iran's foreign relations. His responsibilities extended to coordinating various governmental bodies, overseeing economic projects, and representing the President in different forums. The office of the First Vice President is an appointed position, meaning Mokhber's authority stemmed directly from the President's trust and delegation, making him a central figure in the administration's operations.

Upon assuming the acting presidency, Mokhber immediately demonstrated leadership, leading a cabinet meeting and coordinating with the heads of the judiciary and legislature to ensure a smooth transition and the timely organization of new presidential elections. His actions reflected the constitutional mandate and the preparedness of the Iranian system to maintain stability even in times of profound loss. His tenure as acting president was temporary, designed to bridge the gap until a new popularly elected president could take office, which culminated in the June 2024 elections.

The Succession Mechanism: Article 131 in Action

The Iranian Constitution, particularly Article 131, provides a clear and robust framework for presidential succession, a critical element for political stability in any nation. This article ensures that the sudden incapacitation or death of a sitting president does not lead to a power vacuum or constitutional crisis. Adopted in 1989, Article 131 stipulates that if a president dies in office, the First Vice President of Iran automatically assumes acting presidential powers. This provision is not merely symbolic; it immediately confers the authority necessary to govern and manage the affairs of the state.

Beyond the immediate assumption of power by the First Vice President, Article 131 also mandates a specific timeline for the organization of new elections. Within 50 days of the president's death, an interim presidential council, comprising the First Vice President, the head of the judiciary, and the speaker of the parliament, must arrange for new elections. This tripartite body is responsible for overseeing the electoral process, ensuring its fairness and adherence to constitutional norms. The goal is to quickly restore a popularly elected official to the highest executive office, thereby reaffirming the democratic principles enshrined in the constitution.

Ensuring Continuity and Democratic Process

The mechanism outlined in Article 131 proved its effectiveness in May 2024. Following President Ebrahim Raisi's death, First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber stepped into the role of acting president, as constitutionally mandated. This immediate transition prevented any period of leadership uncertainty. The subsequent coordination between Mokhber, Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf was crucial. This collaboration ensured that while Mokhber managed the day-to-day operations of the government, the necessary steps were simultaneously taken to prepare for the snap presidential elections. This swift and orderly process, guided by the constitutional framework, demonstrated Iran's commitment to maintaining governmental continuity and adhering to its established democratic procedures, even under extraordinary circumstances.

Diversity in Leadership: Women in Iran's Vice Presidency

While the highest echelons of Iranian politics, particularly the presidency, have historically been dominated by men, the role of the Vice President of Iran has seen increasing representation of women, particularly under recent administrations. This trend reflects a gradual, albeit slow, shift towards greater inclusivity in governmental leadership. The new President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, has notably appointed two women as Vice President and another as a minister in his cabinet, signaling a potential for further diversification within the executive branch.

One prominent example of a female Vice President is Shina Ansari. Born in 1972, Shina Ansari is an Iranian politician and environmentalist. She currently serves as Vice President of Iran and the head of Iran's Department of Environment. Ansari holds a PhD from the Islamic Azad University in environmental management, bringing significant academic and professional expertise to her role. Her appointment underscores the government's focus on environmental issues and the recognition of qualified women in specialized fields. She is one of the three female members of the cabinet for President Masoud Pezeshkian, marking a significant presence of women in key governmental roles under the new administration.

Notable Female Vice Presidents and Their Roles

Beyond Shina Ansari, other women have also held significant vice-presidential portfolios. Ensieh Khazali, for instance, served as the Iranian Vice President for Women and Family Affairs. Her role focused on policies and initiatives related to women's rights, family welfare, and gender equality. Khazali's participation in international forums, such as her speech during the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women on March 11, highlights the global dimension of her responsibilities and Iran's engagement on social issues. Another notable figure is Masoumeh Ebtekar, born on September 21, 1960. A reformist politician, Ebtekar had a long and distinguished career, heading the country's Department of Environment from 1997 to 2005 and again from 2013 to 2017. Following this, she served as the Vice President for Women and Family Affairs from 2017 to 2021. Her dual tenures in significant vice-presidential roles demonstrate the long-term commitment of some female leaders within the Iranian political system.

The increasing presence of women as Vice Presidents, particularly in portfolios like environment and women's affairs, indicates a strategic effort to address specific societal needs and leverage diverse expertise within the government. This report explores the backgrounds of these women and compares their roles with those of women in previous Iranian cabinets, suggesting a gradual but persistent evolution in the representation of women in high-level executive positions in Iran.

Other Notable Vice Presidential Roles and Departures

The diverse nature of the Vice President of Iran's office means that various individuals have held specialized portfolios, contributing to different aspects of national governance. While some tenures are long and impactful, others can be remarkably brief, reflecting the dynamic and sometimes volatile nature of political appointments in Iran. These roles, though perhaps less visible than the First Vice President, are crucial for the day-to-day functioning of the government and the implementation of specific policies.

One notable example of a short but impactful tenure is that of Javad Zarif. Known globally for his role as Iran's Foreign Minister from 2013 until 2021 in the government of Hassan Rouhani, Zarif briefly served as the Vice President for Strategic Affairs from August 2024 to March 2025. However, his vice-presidential stint was remarkably brief. Vice President Zarif quit after just 11 days in office on August 12, 2024, citing his disappointment with the new cabinet. This swift departure highlights the complexities of cabinet formation and the potential for disagreements even among high-ranking officials. Zarif's case underscores that while the Vice President of Iran holds significant authority within their portfolio, the political environment can lead to rapid changes in appointments and resignations.

Specialized Portfolios and Their Impact

Beyond strategic affairs, other Vice Presidents are appointed to lead specific organizations related to presidential activities, as defined by Article 124. These roles can include Vice Presidents for Legal Affairs, Parliamentary Affairs, Executive Affairs, Economic Affairs, and more. Each of these positions is critical for streamlining governmental processes, ensuring legal compliance, managing parliamentary relations, and overseeing economic policies. The existence of these specialized Vice Presidents allows the President to delegate extensive responsibilities, enabling a more efficient and focused approach to governance across various sectors.

The appointment of these Vice Presidents is entirely at the discretion of the President, allowing for flexibility in structuring the executive branch to meet the administration's priorities. The individuals chosen for these roles often bring specific expertise and experience relevant to their portfolios, making them key figures in the implementation of the President's agenda. The turnover in these positions can sometimes be high, as Presidents seek to fine-tune their cabinets and bring in new talent or align their team with evolving political objectives. Regardless of the length of their tenure, each Vice President of Iran plays a part in the complex machinery of Iranian governance.

The Vice Presidency and Iran's International Stance

The statements and actions of the Vice President of Iran, particularly the First Vice President, often reflect and reinforce the country's broader foreign policy and international stance. While the President and the Foreign Minister are the primary architects of Iran's diplomacy, other Vice Presidents also contribute to shaping perceptions and communicating the nation's positions on critical global issues. Their comments can offer insights into the government's strategic thinking and its approach to regional and international challenges.

For instance, an interview with Iran's Vice President echoed the country's president, saying Iran does not want a wider war in the Middle East. This statement came as world leaders gathered for the U.N., underscoring Iran's efforts to project a message of de-escalation amidst regional tensions. Such comments from a high-ranking official like the Vice President are carefully weighed and serve to convey the government's official position to the international community. They are part of a coordinated diplomatic effort to manage perceptions and communicate intentions, especially in volatile geopolitical contexts.

Responding to External Pressures

Conversely, statements from foreign officials regarding Iran can also highlight the Vice President's role in the country's strategic responses. For example, Vice President JD Vance (referring to a US official) raised the possibility that President Donald Trump could order U.S. military action if Iran doesn't give up its nuclear enrichment program, in a lengthy post on X. While this is a statement from an external perspective, it directly relates to a core issue of Iran's national security and international relations. The Iranian Vice President's role, in such contexts, might involve coordinating domestic responses, managing public sentiment, or supporting diplomatic efforts to counter such pressures. The Vice President of Iran, therefore, is not only an internal administrative figure but also a participant in the broader discourse surrounding Iran's place in the world, often tasked with reinforcing the nation's sovereignty and strategic interests.

These interactions, whether through direct statements or responses to external pressures, illustrate how the Vice President's office is intertwined with Iran's foreign policy objectives. Their public pronouncements, particularly on sensitive issues like regional stability or nuclear programs, are carefully calibrated to align with the overarching strategic direction set by the Supreme Leader and the President, reinforcing the image and intentions of the Islamic Republic on the global stage.

The Future of the Vice Presidency Under President Pezeshkian

The inauguration of Masoud Pezeshkian as the new President of Iran marks a new chapter for the country's executive branch, including the composition and focus of the Vice Presidency. As the highest popularly elected official in Iran, the President holds the sole authority to appoint the Vice Presidents, thereby shaping the direction and priorities of his administration. Pezeshkian's early appointments have already signaled some key shifts, particularly in terms of gender representation and the expertise brought into the government.

One of the most significant appointments under President Pezeshkian is Mohammad Reza Aref as the First Vice President of Iran. Born on December 19, 1951, Aref is an Iranian engineer, academic, and reformist politician. He is the eighth and current First Vice President of Iran since 2024, succeeding Mohammad Mokhber, who had served in an acting capacity after Raisi's death. Aref's background as a prominent reformist figure and an experienced academic brings a different political flavor to the First Vice Presidency, potentially influencing the administration's domestic policies and its approach to social issues. His appointment signals a move towards a more reform-oriented executive, aligning with President Pezeshkian's own political leanings.

Pezeshkian's Cabinet and New Appointments

President Pezeshkian has also made headlines with his appointments of women to high-level positions. He has appointed two women as Vice President and another as a minister in his cabinet. This move is significant in a country where female representation in top governmental roles has traditionally been limited. Shina Ansari, as previously mentioned, is one of these appointments, serving as Vice President and head of Iran's Department of Environment. These appointments not only diversify the cabinet but also indicate a commitment to leveraging a broader range of talent and perspectives in addressing national challenges. The inclusion of women in key vice-presidential roles, such as environmental affairs, suggests a focus on specific policy areas where their expertise can be particularly impactful.

The composition of Pezeshkian's cabinet, including the Vice Presidents he selects, will be crucial in defining the trajectory of his presidency. These appointments will reflect his priorities, whether they lean towards economic reform, social liberalization, environmental protection, or a combination thereof. The Vice President of Iran, in their various capacities, will be instrumental in implementing these policies, acting as the President's direct representatives in their respective fields. The future of the Vice Presidency under Pezeshkian will therefore be characterized by the specific mandates given to these individuals and their ability to navigate the complex political and social landscape of Iran.

Conclusion

The office of the Vice President of Iran is a multifaceted and indispensable component of the country's executive branch, far more complex than a singular second-in-command. Defined by Article 124 of the Constitution, these appointed roles, particularly that of the First Vice President, are critical for leading specialized organizations related to presidential affairs and, crucially, for ensuring governmental continuity during unforeseen circumstances. The recent elevation of Mohammad Mokhber to acting president following the tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi vividly demonstrated the pivotal importance of Article 131, which mandates the First Vice President's assumption of powers to bridge leadership transitions.

Beyond the succession mechanism, the diverse array of Vice Presidents, numbering around 12 as of August 2019, underscores the delegation of authority across various sectors, from environmental protection championed by figures like Shina Ansari and Masoumeh Ebtekar, to women and family affairs led by Ensieh Khazali. While some tenures, like Javad Zarif's brief stint, highlight the dynamic nature of political appointments, the overall structure ensures specialized focus and efficient governance. As Iran moves forward under President Masoud Pezeshkian, with Mohammad Reza Aref as the new First Vice President and an increased representation of women in key roles, the Vice Presidency will continue to be instrumental in shaping the nation's policies, reflecting its priorities, and navigating its complex domestic and international landscape. Understanding this intricate system is key to comprehending the mechanics of power and governance in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

What are your thoughts on the evolving role of the Vice President in Iran's political system? Share your insights in the comments below! If you found this article informative, consider sharing it with others and exploring our other analyses of global political structures.

Iran's Vice President: A Look at Power & Succession
Understanding the Role of the Vice President of Iran
- Constitutional Framework and Appointment
The First Vice President: A Pivotal Position
- Succession in Action: The Case of Mohammad Mokhber
Mohammad Mokhber: From First Vice President to Acting President
- Key Actions and Public Appearances
The Succession Mechanism: Article 131 in Action
- Ensuring Continuity and Democratic Process
Diversity in Leadership: Women in Iran's Vice Presidency
- Notable Female Vice Presidents and Their Roles
Other Notable Vice Presidential Roles and Departures
- Specialized Portfolios and Their Impact
The Vice Presidency and Iran's International Stance
- Responding to External Pressures
The Future of the Vice Presidency Under President Pezeshkian
- Pezeshkian's Cabinet and New Appointments
Conclusion

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