Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei

Ali Khamenei has served as the Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989, succeeding Ruhollah Khomeini, the leader of the Iranian Revolution. His tenure has been marked by both continuity and change in the Islamic Republic’s domestic and foreign policies.

Born in 1939, Khamenei was an active participant in the pre-revolutionary movement against the Shah. He was imprisoned multiple times for his political activities and played a significant role in the 1979 revolution. After the revolution, he held various positions, including member of parliament, the Supreme National Security Council, and President of Iran from 1981 to 1989.

As Supreme Leader, Khamenei holds ultimate authority in Iran. His powers are extensive, encompassing control over the military, judicial system, state media, and key economic sectors. He appoints the heads of these institutions and has the final say on all major policy decisions. He also controls a vast network of charitable foundations, known as “bonyads,” which wield significant economic power.

Khamenei’s leadership style is often described as cautious and pragmatic, emphasizing the preservation of the Islamic Republic’s system. He has consistently advocated for Iran’s self-sufficiency and resistance against foreign influence, particularly from the United States and Western powers. He has strongly supported Iran’s nuclear program, maintaining that it is for peaceful purposes, despite international concerns. His anti-Western rhetoric and support for groups like Hezbollah have been major sources of tension with the international community.

Domestically, Khamenei has overseen a complex and often contradictory landscape. While he has sometimes called for economic reform and combating corruption, critics argue that his policies have contributed to economic stagnation and limited political freedoms. Under his leadership, Iran has faced significant challenges, including economic sanctions, social unrest, and persistent human rights concerns. Freedom of expression and assembly are heavily restricted, and political dissent is often met with repression.

Khamenei’s influence extends beyond Iran’s borders, as he is seen as a spiritual leader by some Shia Muslims worldwide. His pronouncements on religious and political matters carry significant weight among his followers. He has promoted the concept of “resistance axis” in the Middle East, supporting groups that oppose Western interests and Israel.

Looking ahead, the question of succession looms large. Khamenei is in his 80s, and the process of choosing his successor is a closely guarded secret. The Assembly of Experts, a body of clerics, is responsible for selecting the next Supreme Leader, but Khamenei’s influence in shaping the selection process is undeniable. His legacy will be defined by his decades of leadership, his impact on Iran’s internal dynamics, and his role in shaping the country’s relations with the rest of the world.