Mojtaba Khamenei takes charge: The massive powers of Iran’s supreme leader

With Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the position of Iran’s Supreme Leader, attention has shifted to the extensive powers attached to the country’s highest office.

The role was established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution and stands at the top of Iran’s political structure, above elected institutions such as the president and parliament, with the authority to make final decisions on major national matters.

As Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei will serve as the commander-in-chief of Iran’s armed forces, overseeing both the national military and the influential Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which controls the country’s missile capabilities. The office also holds significant sway over the political system, including the authority to appoint senior military commanders and key officials, while maintaining oversight of the judiciary and state-run media.