Supreme leader

Definition

The supreme leader is the highest-ranking political and religious authority in Iran, overseeing all branches of government and serving as the ultimate decision-maker. This role was established following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which transformed the country into an Islamic Republic, combining both governance and religious leadership under one figure. The position of supreme leader is crucial for maintaining the ideological framework of the Islamic Republic and ensuring that its policies align with Islamic values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The supreme leader is elected by the Assembly of Experts, a body composed of clerics tasked with supervising and selecting the leader.
2. The first supreme leader was Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who played a pivotal role in the 1979 revolution and shaped Iran's Islamic identity.
3. The supreme leader has significant control over military and foreign policy, making this position central to Iran's geopolitical stance.
4. One of the supreme leader's responsibilities includes appointing key positions within the government, judiciary, and media, thus influencing all aspects of Iranian life.
5. The role has faced challenges from reformist movements seeking greater political openness and democratic reforms within Iran.

Review Questions

• How does the role of the supreme leader influence governance in Iran?
  • The supreme leader holds ultimate authority over all branches of government in Iran, which means their decisions significantly shape national policies and priorities. This role impacts everything from foreign relations to domestic laws, as the supreme leader can overrule other branches, including the president. The influence of the supreme leader ensures that all governmental actions align with Islamic principles, reinforcing the ideological underpinnings of the Islamic Republic.
• In what ways does the Guardian Council interact with the authority of the supreme leader?
  • The Guardian Council operates under the oversight of the supreme leader and plays a critical role in ensuring that legislation aligns with Islamic law. This council has veto power over parliamentary decisions and can disqualify candidates from elections based on their adherence to Islamic values. By controlling who can participate in politics and what laws can be passed, the Guardian Council acts as an extension of the supreme leader's authority, reinforcing their power within Iran's political structure.
• Evaluate how the concept of the supreme leader has evolved since its establishment and its implications for Iran's political landscape.
  • Since its establishment after the 1979 revolution, the concept of the supreme leader has evolved to become a central figure in Iranian politics. Initially viewed as a unifying force for the revolution's ideals, this role has also faced criticism and resistance from reformists advocating for a more democratic system. The growing calls for political reform reflect tensions between traditional clerical authority and modern democratic aspirations among segments of Iranian society. This ongoing evolution suggests potential future shifts in how power is exercised within Iran and may impact its governance and relations with other countries.

Related terms

Guardian Council: A powerful body in Iran that ensures laws and candidates align with Islamic principles, playing a significant role in the electoral process and legislative oversight.

Ayatollah: A high-ranking title for Shiite clerics in Iran, indicating a deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, often serving as advisors or political figures.

Islamic Republic: The form of government established in Iran after the 1979 revolution, combining elements of a parliamentary democracy with a theocratic system led by religious leaders.