The killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in joint strikes by the United States and Israel marks a turning point for Iran. For more than 30 years, Khamenei was the country’s highest authority, with power over the military, courts and foreign policy often overriding presidents and parliament.
From Revolutionary Cleric to Supreme Leader
Born in 1939 in Mashhad, Khamenei became involved in politics in the 1960s alongside Ruhollah Khomeini, opposing the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, he quickly rose through the ranks, serving as president from 1981 to 1989.
When Khomeini died in 1989, Iran’s Assembly of Experts appointed Khamenei as supreme leader. Over time, he strengthened the role, making it the most powerful position in the country. As commander-in-chief, he had final authority over the armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
A Rule Marked by Tension and Resistance
Khamenei led Iran through war recovery, heavy Western sanctions and repeated domestic unrest. Supporters saw him as a defender of national sovereignty against foreign pressure. Critics viewed him as the face of a rigid political system resistant to reform.
Under presidents such as Mohammad Khatami, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Hassan Rouhani and Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s politics shifted between reformist and conservative approaches but ultimate power remained with Khamenei.
Major protests, including those sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022 and later economic unrest, exposed deep frustrations inside the country. Authorities responded with crackdowns that led to thousands of deaths, according to official figures.
Nuclear Disputes and Regional Influence
Iran’s nuclear program defined much of Khamenei’s foreign policy. In 2015, Iran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), limiting nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the deal collapsed after President Donald Trump withdrew the US in 2018 and reimposed sanctions.
Khamenei consistently defended Iran’s nuclear activities as peaceful and refused to give up uranium enrichment rights.
Regionally, he supported Palestinian statehood and backed allied groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, building what Tehran calls the “Axis of Resistance” against US and Israeli influence.
What Comes Next?
Khamenei’s death removes one of the most influential figures in modern Middle Eastern politics. His leadership shaped Iran’s ideology, strengthened ties with regional allies and deepened confrontation with Washington and Tel Aviv.
Now, Iran faces uncertainty over leadership succession at a time of heightened regional tensions and fragile diplomatic efforts. The next phase could significantly redefine the country’s direction both at home and abroad.
Source: TRT World
