- First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber is acting as interim president following Raisi’s death, with a new election set for June 28, 2024.
- Key presidential contenders include Mokhber, Ali Larijani, Eshaq Jahangiri, Hossein Dehghan, Mohsen Rezaee, and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
- Raisi’s death creates uncertainty in domestic and foreign policy, complicating the succession of Supreme Leader Khamenei amidst public unrest.
Following the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash, First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber assumed the role of interim president.
Mokhber is a close associate of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and has strong ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). However, before Raisi’s death, Mokhber was not viewed as a possible successor.
The Iranian constitution stipulates that a presidential election must be held within 50 days. The elections are scheduled for June 28, 2024.
Who are the Potential Successors of Raisi?
Mohammad Mokhber
Mohammad Mokhber, the First Vice President, is currently acting as the interim president. He is a prominent figure and could potentially run for the presidency in the upcoming election. His current position and proximity to the late president give him significant visibility and influence.
Ali Larijani
Ali Larijani, a seasoned politician and former Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, is another potential candidate. Known for his moderate conservative stance, Larijani has considerable experience in both the legislative and executive branches of the government. His pragmatic approach could appeal to both conservatives and reformists.
Eshaq Jahangiri
Eshaq Jahangiri, who served as the First Vice President under former President Hassan Rouhani, represents the reformist camp. Jahangiri has been a vocal critic of hardline policies and could garner support from those seeking a shift towards more moderate and reformist policies.
Hossein Dehghan
Hossein Dehghan, a former defense minister and advisor to the Supreme Leader on defense affairs, is another strong contender. His military background and experience in high-level defense positions align him with the IRGC and hardline factions within the government.
Mohsen Rezaee
Mohsen Rezaee, Secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council and former commander of the IRGC, is known for his strong military and political background. Rezaee has run for president multiple times and remains a significant figure in conservative circles.
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
Former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, known for his controversial and outspoken tenure from 2005 to 2013, has shown interest in returning to the political arena. His populist approach and history of defying the establishment make him a wildcard candidate.
How Has Raisi’s Death Impacted Iran’s Political Landscape?
Raisi’s death introduces uncertainty into Iran’s political landscape, particularly concerning domestic policy and stability. Raisi was a hardliner with significant influence over Iran’s judicial and political systems. His administration was characterized by a tough stance on dissent and a continuation of Iran’s controversial nuclear program. The upcoming election could either reinforce or shift these policies, depending on the elected president’s stance.
Ayatollah Khamenei also faces a dilemma in choosing his successor. The controversy surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei’s potential ascension highlights the tension between maintaining revolutionary principles against hereditary rule and ensuring a smooth transition of power. This decision is further complicated by public discontent, as seen in mass protests over various social and political issues in recent years.
Additionally, Raisi’s presidency saw strained relations with the West, primarily due to Iran’s nuclear activities and support for militant groups in the Middle East. The new president’s approach to foreign policy will be crucial in determining Iran’s future interactions on the global stage, particularly with the U.S. and European countries.
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The death of President Raisi marks a critical juncture for Iran. With the presidential election imminent and the question of the Supreme Leader’s succession looming, Iran’s political future remains uncertain. The choices made by the interim leadership and the Assembly of Experts will be critical in shaping the country’s path forward.