Navigating Power: Understanding Iran's Political Leaders

Roxane Gerhold DVM 25 Jun 2025

**Understanding the intricate web of power in Iran can often feel like deciphering a complex puzzle. At its core, the system is a unique blend of elected officials and theocratic authority, where the influence of religious leaders intertwines deeply with political governance. This dual structure creates a dynamic where elected representatives, while holding significant public roles, operate within a framework ultimately overseen by a higher, unelected authority. Exploring the roles and relationships of Iran's political leaders is essential to grasping the country's domestic policies and its stance on the global stage.** This article aims to demystify the hierarchy and functions of the key figures and institutions that shape Iran's political landscape. From the Supreme Leader, who stands as the ultimate authority, to the President, Parliament, and various councils, each plays a distinct yet interconnected role. By delving into their responsibilities and the historical evolution of their powers, we can gain a clearer understanding of how decisions are made, how power is checked, and what defines the unique character of the Islamic Republic's leadership. *** ## Table of Contents * [The Unique Structure of Iran's Government](#the-unique-structure-of-irans-government) * [The Supreme Leader: Apex of Power](#the-supreme-leader-apex-of-power) * [The Presidency: Iran's International Face](#the-presidency-irans-international-face) * [Key Institutions Shaping Power](#key-institutions-shaping-power) * [The Guardian Council and Expediency Council](#the-guardian-council-and-expediency-council) * [The Majlis (Parliament): A Limited Voice](#the-majlis-parliament-a-limited-voice) * [Historical Evolution of Leadership](#historical-evolution-of-leadership) * [The Role of the Armed Forces and Judiciary](#the-role-of-the-armed-forces-and-judiciary) * [Succession and Future of Iran's Political Leaders](#succession-and-future-of-irans-political-leaders) * [Current Dynamics: Challenges and Continuity](#current-dynamics-challenges-and-continuity) * [Understanding the Interplay of Power](#understanding-the-interplay-of-power) * [Iran's Political Leaders: A Complex Tapestry](#irans-political-leaders-a-complex-tapestry) *** ## The Unique Structure of Iran's Government Iran's political system is famously complicated, as the provided data aptly describes, mixing elected leaders with theocratic and military power players. It is not quite a democracy, nor a pure theocracy; rather, it is a hybrid system that has evolved since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. At its heart, the system is designed to uphold Islamic principles while allowing for popular participation through elections. This delicate balance means that while citizens vote for their representatives, the ultimate authority rests with a religious figure. This unique structure distinguishes Iran from most other nations, where power is typically concentrated in either purely democratic or purely autocratic hands. Here, the interplay between elected bodies and unelected religious institutions creates a fascinating, albeit often opaque, political environment. Understanding this fundamental duality is the first step to comprehending the roles and limitations of Iran's political leaders. ### The Supreme Leader: Apex of Power At the pinnacle of Iran's political and religious hierarchy stands the Supreme Leader. Officially called the Supreme Leadership Authority, and also referred to as the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, this individual is the head of state and the highest political and religious authority of Iran, positioned above the President. This singular figure embodies the ideological and political control over a system dominated by clerics. The founding Supreme Leader, Ruhollah Khomeini, developed this foundational structure. The Supreme Leader's power is extensive and far-reaching. They have control over every major decision, either directly or through a vast network of institutions and advisors. This includes the armed forces, the judicial system, state television, and other key governmental organizations such as the Guardian Council and the Expediency Discernment Council. For instance, individuals like Ejhi, whose role is as much political as it is legal, are appointed directly by the Supreme Leader. This immense influence means that the Supreme Leader is, without doubt, the most important political leader in the country of Iran. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei currently holds this powerful position. ### The Presidency: Iran's International Face While the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority, the President of Iran serves as the face of Iranian foreign policy to the world. This role, however, operates within the confines set by the Rahbar, or Supreme Leader. The post is often dismissed as ceremonial, and indeed, in the first decade after the Islamic Revolution (1979), most government policy was carried out by either the Supreme Leader or the Prime Minister. Following the 1989 abolition of the prime minister's post, the president's role became more prominent, though still subject to the Supreme Leader's oversight. Iranians go to the polls to elect a new president, as seen recently following the death in May of the former incumbent, Ebrahim Raisi. From Abolhassan Banisadr, the first president, to the current president, Masoud Pezeshkian, each leader has reflected Iran’s shifting political ideologies. While the president manages the day-to-day executive affairs and represents Iran internationally, their policy decisions and even cabinet appointments (as seen when Mashaei was ordered to resign from the cabinet by the Supreme Leader) are ultimately subject to the Supreme Leader's approval. The president's cabinet and parliament work within this framework. ## Key Institutions Shaping Power Beyond the Supreme Leader and the President, several other key institutions play crucial roles in Iran's political system, acting as checks and balances, albeit ones that ultimately defer to the Supreme Leader. These bodies are integral to how laws are passed, how elections are vetted, and how disputes are resolved within the complex framework of the Islamic Republic. Their existence highlights the layered nature of authority among Iran's political leaders. ### The Guardian Council and Expediency Council Two of the most powerful unelected bodies in Iran are the Guardian Council and the Expediency Discernment Council. The Guardian Council, currently led by Secretary Ahmad Jannati, holds immense power. It is responsible for vetting all laws passed by the Majlis (parliament) to ensure they comply with Islamic law and the constitution. More significantly, it also vets candidates for presidential and parliamentary elections, effectively determining who is allowed to run for office. This power gives the Guardian Council immense influence over the democratic process, as it can disqualify candidates based on their perceived loyalty to the Islamic Republic's principles. The Expediency Discernment Council, chaired by Sadiq Larijani, serves as an advisory body to the Supreme Leader and acts as an arbitration body to resolve disputes between the Majlis and the Guardian Council. When the Guardian Council rejects a bill passed by the parliament, the Expediency Council steps in to mediate. Its decisions are final, and its existence further solidifies the Supreme Leader's ultimate authority, as its members are appointed by him. These councils collectively ensure that the legislative and electoral processes align with the vision of the Islamic Revolution, significantly checking the power of elected officials. ### The Majlis (Parliament): A Limited Voice Iran’s Majlis, or parliament, holds 290 elected seats, representing the voice of the people. Members are elected through popular vote, making it a key democratic institution. The Majlis is responsible for drafting and passing legislation, approving the national budget, and overseeing the government's performance. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf currently serves as the Speaker of the Parliament. However, the power of the Majlis is checked at every turn. As mentioned, its legislative output must be approved by the Guardian Council. If a bill is deemed un-Islamic or unconstitutional, it is sent back to the parliament for revision. Ultimately, its power is checked by the Guardian Council, the Expediency Council, and most importantly, the Supreme Leader. This hierarchical structure means that while the Majlis provides a platform for public representation and debate, its legislative authority is constrained by the overarching religious and revolutionary principles enforced by the higher echelons of Iran's political leaders. ## Historical Evolution of Leadership The current structure of Iran's political leaders is a direct result of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Before the revolution, Iran was a monarchy under the Shah. The revolution fundamentally transformed the country's governance, establishing an Islamic Republic based on the concept of *Velayat-e Faqih* (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist), which vests ultimate authority in a qualified cleric. The 1979 constitution, presented by the Assembly on October 24, 1979, and approved by Supreme Leader Ruhollah Khomeini and Prime Minister Mehdi Bazargan, designated the Supreme Leader as the head of state and the President and Prime Minister as the heads of the executive branch. This constitution was further approved in a constitutional referendum on December 2 and 3. The role of the Prime Minister was later abolished in 1989, consolidating executive power under the President, albeit still under the Supreme Leader's ultimate guidance. Each president since the revolution has navigated this complex system, reflecting Iran’s shifting political ideologies and external challenges. From Banisadr, the first president, through figures like Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, Mohammad Khatami, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Hassan Rouhani, and Ebrahim Raisi, to the current president, Masoud Pezeshkian, their tenures offer a historical narrative of how Iran's political leaders have adapted to domestic pressures and international relations. This historical context is crucial for understanding the present dynamics and future trajectory of power in Iran. ## The Role of the Armed Forces and Judiciary Beyond the civilian political structures, the armed forces and the judicial system play pivotal roles in Iran's governance, operating under the direct control of the Supreme Leader. This centralization of power ensures that these critical pillars of the state align with the Supreme Leader's vision and directives, further solidifying his authority over all aspects of Iranian society. The armed forces, including the regular army (Artesh) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), are not merely instruments of national defense but also significant political and economic actors. The IRGC, in particular, holds immense influence, with its own intelligence apparatus, vast economic interests, and a deep ideological commitment to the principles of the Islamic Revolution. Its top military leaders are directly accountable to the Supreme Leader, making it a crucial tool for maintaining internal security and projecting Iran's power regionally. Recent reports of Israeli attacks on Iran’s top military leaders and nuclear infrastructure highlight the strategic importance and vulnerability of these forces. Similarly, the judicial system is an integral part of the Supreme Leader's domain. The head of the judiciary is appointed by the Supreme Leader, and the courts operate under his ultimate authority. This control extends to all levels of the legal system, ensuring that judicial rulings align with Islamic law and the state's political objectives. The intertwining of legal and political power, as exemplified by figures like Ejhi whose role is both political and legal, underscores how deeply the Supreme Leader's influence permeates every aspect of governance, including the enforcement of laws and the administration of justice. This comprehensive control over the armed forces and judiciary reinforces the unique nature of Iran's political leaders and their centralized authority. ## Succession and Future of Iran's Political Leaders The question of succession for the Supreme Leader is one of the most critical and closely watched aspects of Iranian politics. Given the immense power vested in this single individual, the process of selecting a new Supreme Leader is fraught with significance, both domestically and internationally. The Assembly of Experts, an elected body of high-ranking clerics, is constitutionally tasked with choosing the next Supreme Leader. However, the influence of the current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and other powerful clerical figures within the system means that the succession process is often subject to behind-the-scenes maneuvering and power struggles. The death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in May has brought the issue of succession, particularly for the presidency, into sharp focus. Iranians went to the polls to elect a new president, demonstrating the ongoing, albeit constrained, democratic process. However, the ultimate choice of who can even run for president, as well as the parameters of their power, remains firmly within the purview of the Supreme Leader and the Guardian Council. The future of Iran's political leaders will largely depend on how these succession processes unfold, particularly for the Supreme Leader, as this will determine the ideological direction and overall trajectory of the Islamic Republic. The potential for a power struggle looms, especially given the current geopolitical tensions and internal dynamics. ## Current Dynamics: Challenges and Continuity In today’s Iran, the political landscape is shaped by a complex interplay of internal and external pressures. The country faces significant economic issues, often exacerbated by international sanctions and internal mismanagement. These challenges directly impact the lives of ordinary Iranians and present formidable tasks for Iran's political leaders. The current political and economic issues are succinctly explained by the dual nature of Iran's system, which is neither purely democratic nor purely a theocracy, leading to unique governance challenges. Externally, Iran remains a key player in regional geopolitics, often finding itself at odds with Western powers and regional rivals. Incidents such as Iranian missiles hitting a hospital and wounding over 200, or threats from Israel towards Iran's top leader, underscore the volatile international environment in which Iran's political leaders operate. The nuclear program, including facilities like Iran's Arak heavy water reactor (which was part of Tehran's nuclear deal and was reportedly hit by an Israeli airstrike), remains a central point of contention. President Donald Trump's past expressions of optimism that Israeli attacks might force Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, back to the bargaining table highlight the constant pressure from external actors. Despite these pressures, Iran’s autocratic regime still appears capable of weathering conflicts, demonstrating a degree of continuity and resilience in its leadership structure. ## Understanding the Interplay of Power The intricate relationship between the various branches and figures within Iran's political system is key to understanding how the country functions. The Supreme Leader, as the highest-ranking political and religious authority, holds ultimate sway. Below him, the President serves as the chief executive and international representative, while the Parliament (Majlis) acts as the legislative body. However, the powers of these elected officials are constantly checked and balanced by unelected institutions like the Guardian Council and the Expediency Discernment Council, all ultimately under the Supreme Leader's control. This system ensures that while there is an element of popular participation through elections, the fundamental ideological direction of the country remains firmly in the hands of the clerical establishment. The armed forces and the judiciary further reinforce this centralized authority, ensuring compliance and maintaining order. The dynamic between these different centers of power defines the unique character of Iran's political leaders and their decision-making processes. It's a system where the "face" of foreign policy (the President) operates within strict "confines set by the Rahbar, or Supreme Leader," and where "most government policy was carried out by either the Supreme Leader or the prime minister" in the early days of the revolution, a legacy that continues to influence power distribution today. ## Iran's Political Leaders: A Complex Tapestry In conclusion, the landscape of Iran's political leaders is a rich and complex tapestry woven from threads of religious authority, democratic participation, and strategic geopolitical positioning. At its heart lies the Supreme Leader, the ultimate arbiter of power and ideology, whose influence permeates every facet of governance, from the military to the judiciary. The President, though elected and serving as the nation's international representative, operates within boundaries set by this supreme authority. Meanwhile, the Parliament and various powerful councils like the Guardian Council and Expediency Discernment Council play crucial roles in shaping legislation and vetting candidates, all while ultimately deferring to the Supreme Leader's vision. This intricate system, born from the 1979 Islamic Revolution and continuously evolving, presents a unique model of governance that defies simple categorization. Understanding the roles, responsibilities, and interconnections of Iran's political leaders is not just an academic exercise; it is essential for anyone seeking to comprehend the nation's domestic policies, its regional influence, and its interactions on the global stage. The ongoing interplay between elected officials and theocratic power players ensures that the story of Iran's leadership remains one of constant dynamism and enduring significance. We hope this guide has illuminated the complex workings of power in Iran. What are your thoughts on this unique political system? Share your insights in the comments below, or explore our other articles to deepen your understanding of global political structures.