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.
Pope trip to Luxembourg, Belgium confirmed for September, 2 weeks after challenging Asia visit
VOX POPULI: ‘Domicide’ is yet another terrible addition to the lexicon of war
Christchurch man jailed for 14 years over role in US porn videos
Minister 'not convinced' Fire and Emergency needs further levy boost
‘The Blue Angels,’ filmed for IMAX, puts viewers in the ‘box’ with the elite flying squad
China's 'core socialist values' daubed on a London wall inspire war of words
Cheng Lei China: Jailed Australian TV anchor jailed releases rare message
VOX POPULI: Radiation lingers even 70 years after H
The unstoppable duo of Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos
VOX POPULI: Nikkei index soars but real economy still feels sluggish
Georgia Republicans choose Amy Kremer, organizer of pro
Minister 'not convinced' Fire and Emergency needs further levy boost