JERUSALEM (AP) — The death of Iran’s president is unlikely to lead to any immediate changes in Iran’s ruling system or to its overarching policies, which are decided by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
But Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash Sunday, was seen as a prime candidate to succeed the 85-year-old supreme leader, and his death makes it more likely that the job could eventually go to Khamenei’s son.
A hereditary succession would pose a potential crisis of legitimacy for the Islamic Republic, which was established as an alternative to monarchy but which many Iranians already see as a corrupt and dictatorial regime.
Here’s a look at what comes next.
Iran holds regular elections for president and parliament with universal suffrage.
But the supreme leader has final say on all major policies, serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and controls the powerful Revolutionary Guard.
Ship that caused Baltimore bridge collapse has been refloated
Entrepreneur Helps Rural Women Shake off Poverty in Northwest China
'Rose Sister' Leads Villagers to Prosperity
Repairer Breathes New Life into Damaged Ancient Books
The trial of a former Syrian general over alleged role in war crimes starts in Stockholm
Artist Inherits, Promotes Kunqu Opera
Lin Lin: Advocating Good Family Traditions, Healthy Social Practices
Red Lobster seeks bankruptcy protection after closing some restaurants
OpenAI pauses ChatGPT voice after Scarlett Johansson comparisons
Entrepreneur Helps Rural Women Shake off Poverty in Northwest China