Structure of power in Iran

While the president has significant influence over domestic policy and foreign affairs, his powers are limited by the constitution, which subordinates his role to the Supreme Leader

Appointed or approved 
Directly elected
Vetting procedure

National Security Council 
Guides foreign and nuclear policy
      
Armed forces
Revolutionary Guard and army commanders

Expediency Council 
Advisory body to Supreme Leader

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

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

Parliament
290 members elected for four years

President
Elected for four years, may serve only two consecutive terms
  
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

ELECTORATE
Jun 28: New elections. Vice president holds power in interim

Ebrahim Raisi
(Killed in helicopter crash, May 20) 

Sources: Iran Chamber Society, Stratfor Pictures: Getty Images, Newscom © GRAPHIC NEWS