Anatomy of Iran’s political structure

While Iran’s President has a high public profile, his powers are limited by the constitution, which subordinates his role to the Supreme Leader

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Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (Since 1989)
Highest political and religious authority, appointed for life. Can dismiss senior government officials

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Directly elected 

Appointed or approved

Vetting procedure


Armed forces
Revolutionary Guard and army commanders

National Security Council
Guides foreign and nuclear policy

Expediency Council
Advisory body to Supreme Leader

Head of judiciary
Top authority on Islamic law

Guardian Council
12 jurists – six chosen by Supreme Leader, and six nominated by judiciary and approved by Parliament. Can block parliament’s laws and bar candidates from standing in elections

Cabinet
21 ministers

Assembly of Experts
Conservative body of 88 clerics elected for eight years. Selects and can dismiss Supreme Leader, but has never been known to challenge any of his decisions

Parliament
290 members elected for four years

President Hassan Rouhani (since 2013)
Elected for four years, may serve only two consecutive terms

Electorate
55 million people eligible to vote

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Source: Iran Chamber Society 

Pictures: Associated Press 

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