Author: Golnar Motevalli

Following the destruction of an Iranian consulate building in Syria, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised to retaliate against Israel. Despite a series of targeted attacks on Iranian-backed groups in the region, a full-scale war has not erupted. Recent assassinations of key Hezbollah and Hamas figures have raised tensions, but experts believe Iran will prioritize rebuilding its militant allies and maintaining a network of proxies rather than engaging in direct conflict with Israel. The latest blow, the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, is seen as a significant setback for Iran. While the situation remains volatile, current and former officials…

The recent tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash has left many wondering who will now succeed him in running the government. Raisi’s untimely passing not only creates a vacancy in the presidency, but also raises questions about the future leadership of Iran, particularly in light of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s advancing age. But what exactly is the difference between the roles of Supreme Leader and President in Iran? The Supreme Leader, also known as Velayat-e Faqih in Shia Islamic theology, holds the highest authority in the country and is responsible for making all…