June 23, 2025 – Tehran: As Iran’s tensions with the West escalate and Gulf nations close their skies in fear of further conflict, many are asking: who truly calls the shots in Iran? While President Ebrahim Raisi gives speeches and diplomats send statements, it is Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei who ultimately shapes the country's course.
But who is Khamenei, and why does his voice matter more than any other in the Islamic Republic?
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has held the position of Supreme Leader since 1989. Unlike presidents or ministers, he is not elected by the public in general elections. Instead, his authority comes from a mix of religious power and constitutional control. In Iran’s unique system of government, the Supreme Leader has the final say on all major decisions—from nuclear development and foreign alliances to military retaliation and internal policies.
So when Iranian missiles were launched at U.S. bases earlier this month, it wasn’t President Raisi who made that call. Behind the scenes, it was Khamenei who approved the limited strike—carefully calibrated to avoid a war, yet strong enough to save face after the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
This balance between bold rhetoric and calculated moves has defined Khamenei’s leadership for decades. While he consistently speaks of "resistance against global arrogance"—a phrase that refers to U.S. and Israeli influence—his actions often show a deep understanding of regional power dynamics. It’s this mix of ideology and strategy that makes him both feared and respected on the world stage.
At 86 years old, Khamenei remains the single most powerful figure in Iran. He oversees the military, the courts, the Guardian Council that approves political candidates, and the state media. His decisions ripple far beyond Tehran. Whether it's backing Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, or signing deals with Russia and China, his hand is always behind the curtain.
But even as his power appears absolute, there are growing whispers about what happens next. Iran’s political elite are quietly preparing for a future without him. The Assembly of Experts, the only body that can choose a new Supreme Leader, is already believed to be vetting candidates. Some expect a younger cleric aligned with the Revolutionary Guard. Others predict fierce competition between conservative hardliners and more moderate scholars.
For now, however, Ayatollah Khamenei’s grip remains tight. His ability to control the message, calm internal unrest, and navigate external pressure has ensured his survival through wars, sanctions, uprisings, and assassinations. Whether the world likes it or not, no decision about Iran—especially in times of crisis—happens without his blessing.
So when the question is asked, “Who controls Iran?” the answer is not found in parliament or at the ballot box. It begins and ends with one man: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
🧭 Why this matters
Understanding who holds true power in Iran helps explain its actions on the world stage. Khamenei’s choices affect not just Iran, but the entire Middle East—and potentially the global economy.
👉 Explore more exclusive insights🧠 Curious About Ayatollah Khamenei’s Power?
Get to know the man behind Iran’s most powerful decisions—from nuclear ambitions to military strategy. Who really is Ayatollah Khamenei?
👉 Read: Who Is Ayatollah Khamenei? Iran’s Supreme Leader and His Role in Middle East Tensions📌 Frequently Asked Questions: Who Really Controls Iran?
1. Who holds the highest power in Iran?
The Supreme Leader, currently Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holds the ultimate authority in Iran’s political, religious, and military affairs.
2. What is the role of Iran’s president?
The president is elected and manages daily governance, but his power is limited by the Supreme Leader’s authority.
3. Is Ayatollah Khamenei Iran’s head of state?
Yes, he is the de facto head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
4. How long has Khamenei been Supreme Leader?
He has served since 1989, following the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.
5. Can the people of Iran vote out the Supreme Leader?
No. The Supreme Leader is appointed by the Assembly of Experts and is not subject to public election.
6. What is the Assembly of Experts?
It is a clerical body that appoints and can theoretically remove the Supreme Leader, though removal has never occurred.
7. Does the Supreme Leader control Iran’s military?
Yes, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the regular army.
8. What is the IRGC?
A powerful military and political force loyal to the Supreme Leader, responsible for external operations and internal security.
9. Is the Supreme Leader involved in foreign policy?
Absolutely. Khamenei sets major foreign policy directions, especially concerning the U.S., Israel, and nuclear issues.
10. Who oversees Iran’s nuclear program?
Strategic decisions are made by the Supreme Leader, even if scientists and officials manage daily operations.
11. Can the president disagree with Khamenei?
Presidents have limited space to disagree, but ultimately must align with the Supreme Leader’s directives.
12. What is Velayat-e Faqih?
The Islamic principle that grants religious leaders political authority—foundation of Iran’s leadership system.
13. Is Iran a democracy?
Iran holds elections, but unelected institutions like the Supreme Leader and Guardian Council hold ultimate power.
14. Does the Supreme Leader control the media?
Yes. State media is under his influence, and independent media faces censorship or closure.
15. What happens if the Supreme Leader dies?
The Assembly of Experts selects a successor, often after private deliberations among elite clerics and military leaders.
16. Is Khamenei popular among Iranians?
Opinions are mixed—he has loyal support among conservatives, but faces criticism from reformists and youth.
17. How old is Ayatollah Khamenei?
He is 86 years old as of 2025.
18. Has Khamenei faced internal threats?
Yes, there have been assassination attempts and opposition, but he maintains control through loyalty and power networks.
19. Does Iran have political parties?
Yes, but many are factions under tight control. All candidates must be approved by the Guardian Council.
20. Is there a parliament in Iran?
Yes, the Majlis (parliament) exists, but its power is restricted by unelected bodies.
21. What role does religion play in Iran’s politics?
Religion is deeply intertwined—clerics hold the top positions, and law is based on Islamic principles.
22. What countries support Iran’s regime?
Iran maintains strong ties with Russia, China, Syria, and some non-state actors like Hezbollah.
23. How does Khamenei view the West?
He often criticizes Western interference and promotes independence from U.S. and European influence.
24. Who enforces Khamenei’s orders?
The IRGC, intelligence units, and loyal clerical institutions enforce his directives across sectors.
25. Can Iran’s system change in the future?
There are growing calls for reform, but change depends on the post-Khamenei leadership and public pressure.
26. What is the Guardian Council?
A powerful body that vets candidates for office and ensures laws align with Islamic values and the Supreme Leader’s stance.
27. Is there freedom of speech in Iran?
It is limited. Critics of the Supreme Leader or regime face censorship, imprisonment, or worse.
28. Has the Supreme Leader’s power increased over time?
Yes. Khamenei has gradually centralized more authority since assuming office in 1989.
29. What’s next after Khamenei?
A succession process is expected. Many fear a struggle between hardliners and reformists once he passes.
30. Why does understanding Khamenei matter?
Because no serious analysis of Iran’s politics, military actions, or foreign policy is complete without recognizing the Supreme Leader’s absolute role.
Comments
Post a Comment