Ali Khamenei is the current Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a pivotal figure since 1989. As Iran's highest political and religious authority, he...
Ali Khamenei is the second and current Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a position he has held since 1989. He serves as the country's highest religious and political authority.
As Supreme Leader, Khamenei holds ultimate authority over Iran's state affairs, including foreign policy, military, judiciary, and state media. He also serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Ali Khamenei was elected as Supreme Leader on June 4, 1989, succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini shortly after Khomeini's death.
The Supreme Leader is chosen by the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body of high-ranking clerics elected by popular vote, based on their religious scholarship and political acumen.