Questions swirl over Iran’s future after President Raisi’s sudden death

May 20, 2024

Ian Kennedy

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The sudden death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has left the nation grappling with questions about its future. The impact of Raisi’s passing is reverberating across Iran and throughout the rest of the world.

Iran’s hierarchy of power

Unlike the United States, where the president holds significant authority, the Islamic Republic has Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who wields ultimate power. The president serves under the supreme leader.

Khamenei controls critical aspects of Iran’s policies, both domestically and in foreign affairs. He oversees intelligence and security operations, appoints key officials and makes military decisions. Notably, Iran is the only country where the executive branch does not directly control its armed forces — the supreme leader holds that authority.

Impact on Israel-Hamas conflict

The death of President Raisi raises questions about Iran’s role in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. In April, Iran launched a barrage of missiles against Israel — an action carried out at the supreme leader’s orders and executed by Raisi. With Raisi gone, the supreme leader’s decisions will continue to shape Iran’s involvement in regional conflicts.

Interim leadership

In the short term, Mohammad Mokhber, one of Iran’s 12 vice presidents, has been appointed as the interim president by the supreme leader. However, the real power remains with Khamenei. In 50 days, Iran will hold a presidential election, further determining the nation’s direction.