Unveiling Iran's Power Structure: Who Truly Holds The Reins?

Prof. Diamond Tromp Jr. 24 Jun 2025

Understanding the intricate web of authority in the Islamic Republic of Iran is crucial for anyone seeking to grasp its domestic policies, foreign relations, and regional influence. Unlike many nations, Iran operates under a unique dual power structure where religious and political authority are deeply intertwined, often leading to a complex dynamic that can be challenging to decipher. This article aims to shed light on who has power in Iran, dissecting the roles of key figures and institutions that shape the nation's destiny.

From the foundational principles established during the 1979 Islamic Revolution to the contemporary geopolitical landscape, the question of **who has power in Iran** remains central to comprehending its trajectory. While a president is elected, and a parliament convenes, the ultimate authority rests with a figure whose influence permeates every aspect of state affairs. This unique system, often misunderstood, is vital for analyzing Iran's resilience in the face of external pressures and its internal political machinations.

The Supreme Leader: Iran's Ultimate Authority
The Architect of the Islamic Republic: Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini
The President's Limited Mandate in Iran
Pillars of Power: Military and Security Forces
Iran's Military Might and Regional Projection
External Pressures and Internal Resilience
The Nuclear Ambition: A Source of Power and Tension
Challenges to State Power: A Looming Power Struggle?
The Interplay of Politics, Religion, and Society
Understanding Iran's Unique Power Structure
Why Understanding Iran's Power Dynamics Matters

The Supreme Leader: Iran's Ultimate Authority

At the very pinnacle of Iran's intricate power structure stands the Supreme Leader. This position, formally known as the Supreme Leadership Authority, is not merely a ceremonial role but the highest political and religious authority in the country, positioned above even the President. Since the founding of the Islamic Republic in 1979, only two individuals have held this immensely powerful office, underscoring its enduring significance and the stability it brings to the system.

The current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, succeeded Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the revered father of the Iranian Revolution, upon Khomeini's death in 1989. Khamenei, now 86, has led Iran for over three decades, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the Middle East. His tenure has been marked by significant domestic and international challenges, yet his authority has remained largely unchallenged from within the core of the establishment. The depth of his influence means that when discussing **who has power in Iran**, his name is undeniably at the top of the list.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei holds direct or indirect power over virtually all matters of state. His purview extends from the nuances of foreign policy to the intricacies of domestic politics, encompassing economic decisions, cultural directives, and military strategies. He is the ultimate arbiter, possessing the final say on critical national issues. A key aspect of his power is his ability to appoint crucial officials across various sectors. This includes the head of the judiciary, the commanders of the armed forces, and the directors of state-run media, ensuring that key levers of power remain aligned with his vision and the principles of the Islamic Revolution.

His role is not just political; it is deeply religious. As the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, he serves as the spiritual guide for the nation, embodying the concept of Velayat-e Faqih, or the Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. This doctrine asserts that in the absence of the Hidden Imam, a qualified Islamic jurist should rule the country, providing religious legitimacy to the Supreme Leader's absolute authority. This unique fusion of political and religious power ensures that his decisions carry immense weight, both legally and morally, for a significant portion of the Iranian population.

The Architect of the Islamic Republic: Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini

The foundation of Iran's unique governance model lies with Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Having led Iran for ten years after toppling the country's monarchy in 1979, Khomeini established the framework of the Islamic Republic and defined the role of the Supreme Leader. His charisma, revolutionary zeal, and profound religious scholarship allowed him to consolidate power and establish a system designed to safeguard Islamic principles. Khomeini and Khamenei are the only two men to have held the office since the revolution, a testament to the enduring structure and the careful succession planning within the Iranian establishment. Khomeini's legacy continues to shape the political and ideological landscape, serving as the ideological bedrock upon which Khamenei's rule is built. His vision for an independent, Islamic state continues to define Iran's domestic and foreign policies, making him a perpetual influence on **who has power in Iran** even decades after his passing.

The President's Limited Mandate in Iran

While the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority, Iran also has an elected President, who serves as the head of government. Iran's current president, Masoud Pezeshkian, took office in July 2024. However, it is critical to understand that in Iran, the president’s power is limited by design. This limitation is a fundamental characteristic of the Islamic Republic's governance model, distinguishing it significantly from presidential systems found in Western democracies. The president operates under the ultimate oversight and direction of the Supreme Leader.

The president's primary responsibilities revolve around managing economic and domestic policy. This includes overseeing the various ministries and the vast bureaucracy that implements state policies. The president is responsible for day-to-day governance, presenting the annual budget, and representing Iran on the international stage. Yet, even in these areas, major strategic decisions, especially concerning foreign policy, defense, and key economic directions, require the Supreme Leader's approval or are directly dictated by him. For instance, while the president leads the executive branch, appointments to crucial ministerial positions often need the Supreme Leader's endorsement, and policies can be vetoed or altered by higher authorities, such as the Guardian Council, whose members are appointed directly or indirectly by the Supreme Leader.

This inherent limitation means that while the president is the public face of the government and engages in direct diplomacy, their capacity for independent action is constrained. The president's role is more akin to that of a chief executive officer operating under the strict guidance of a powerful chairman of the board. Therefore, when assessing **who has power in Iran**, it is essential to differentiate between the visible, elected office of the president and the ultimate, overarching authority of the Supreme Leader, who holds the true reins of power and sets the national agenda.

Pillars of Power: Military and Security Forces

Beyond the formal political structures, Iran's military and security forces constitute a formidable pillar of power, crucial for maintaining internal order and projecting influence abroad. These forces are not merely instruments of the state; they are deeply integrated into the country's political, economic, and social fabric, playing a significant role in determining **who has power in Iran** and how that power is exercised.

The Law Enforcement Force of the Islamic Republic of Iran (NAJA) is the uniformed police force responsible for domestic security. Established in 1992 by merging the Shahrbani (urban police), Gendarmerie (rural police), and the Committee of Iran (revolutionary committees), it operates under the Ministry of Interior. With more than 60,000 police personnel, including border patrol, NAJA is tasked with maintaining law and order, combating crime, and enforcing state regulations. Its widespread presence across the country makes it a visible arm of state control, ensuring compliance with both secular laws and religious codes.

However, the security landscape in Iran extends far beyond NAJA. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), though not explicitly detailed in the provided data, is an indispensable force in understanding Iran's power dynamics. Established after the revolution to protect the Islamic system, the IRGC has grown into a vast military, political, and economic conglomerate. It operates parallel to the conventional army but wields significantly more influence, answering directly to the Supreme Leader. The IRGC's various branches, including its elite Quds Force, are instrumental in Iran's regional strategy, supporting proxies and extending Tehran's influence across the Middle East.

The data points to the broader reach of Iran's security apparatus, noting that "These systems have been supplied to proxies across the region and reportedly to Russia in the Ukraine war." This highlights Iran's strategic use of its military and security capabilities to project power beyond its borders, influencing conflicts and supporting allies. This external projection of power, facilitated by its security forces, reinforces the regime's internal legitimacy and its standing as a regional player, making these forces indispensable in the overall power equation.

Iran's Military Might and Regional Projection

Iran's military strength is a critical component of its national power and its ability to influence regional dynamics. The Global Firepower (GFP) index for 2025 denotes Iran as a top 20 global military power, specifically ranking it 16 out of 145 countries considered for the annual review, with a PWRINX* score of 0.3048 (where 0.0000 is considered 'perfect'). This high ranking reflects a significant investment in defense capabilities and a strategic focus on developing indigenous military technology.

On the seas, Iran has a broader fleet compared to many regional adversaries. It maintains 101 naval assets compared to Israel’s 67, indicating a substantial maritime presence. Iran has expanded its fleet with domestically produced vessels and small submarines, reportedly imported from North Korea. These assets help Iran project power in regional waters, particularly in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, enhancing its maritime presence and securing its vital trade routes. While Iran has launched many missile types, some advanced systems remain largely unused in current conflicts, suggesting a strategic reserve of capabilities that could be deployed if necessary. This military prowess, under the ultimate command of the Supreme Leader, is a key factor in how **who has power in Iran** translates into geopolitical influence.

External Pressures and Internal Resilience

Iran's power structure is constantly tested by external pressures, particularly from long-standing adversaries like Israel and the United States. These challenges, however, have often served to reinforce the regime's internal cohesion and its determination to project strength. After decades of threats, Israel launched an audacious attack on Iran, targeting its nuclear sites, scientists, and military leaders. Such attacks are designed to cripple Iran's strategic capabilities and undermine the regime's authority.

Despite these significant strikes, Iran's autocratic regime has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for weathering conflict. After a week of Israeli attacks, which killed more than 240 Iranians, including several members of its military leadership, the regime still appeared capable of maintaining control and responding. This resilience is a testament to the deeply entrenched nature of its power structure, particularly the centralized authority of the Supreme Leader and the robust security apparatus at his command. The regime's response has consistently been to hit back, often through proxies or with measured military actions, showcasing its ability to retaliate and deter further aggression. This ability to withstand and respond to external threats is a critical aspect of how **who has power in Iran** is perceived both domestically and internationally.

The Nuclear Ambition: A Source of Power and Tension

At the heart of Iran's geopolitical standing and its external pressures lies its controversial nuclear program. While officially for peaceful energy purposes, the program has long been suspected of having military dimensions, leading to international sanctions and heightened tensions. The development of its nuclear capabilities is seen by Tehran as a crucial element of its national security and a symbol of its technological prowess and sovereignty. This ambition directly impacts the question of **who has power in Iran** by strengthening its bargaining position on the global stage and bolstering its deterrent capabilities.

In a significant development, the president of Iran’s nuclear energy agency announced that officials in that country have signed an agreement with Russia for the construction of at least eight nuclear power plants in Iran. This agreement underscores Iran's commitment to expanding its nuclear infrastructure, potentially reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, and asserting its right to nuclear technology. However, it also highlights the ongoing international cooperation that allows Iran to advance its program despite Western opposition, further complicating efforts to contain its nuclear ambitions. The nuclear program, therefore, is not just a scientific endeavor but a strategic tool that directly contributes to Iran's power projection and its ability to withstand external pressures, reinforcing the authority of those at the helm.

Challenges to State Power: A Looming Power Struggle?

While the Supreme Leader's authority appears absolute, state power in Iran has faced and continues to face various challenges. These challenges can emerge from within the political establishment, from popular dissent, or as a consequence of external pressures. The question of "how has state power been challenged in Iran?" is multifaceted, reflecting the complex interplay of internal dynamics and external forces. Despite the regime's resilience, the data suggests that "a power struggle looms," hinting at potential shifts or intensified competition within the ruling elite, especially given the advanced age of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

For decades, Khamenei has been at the heart of Iran's strategy of projecting its power and influence across the region. However, this strategy has been significantly weakened in the wake of Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks on Israel that resulted in the war in Gaza. The regional fallout from this conflict, including increased tensions and direct confrontations, puts immense pressure on Iran's alliances and its economic resources. Such geopolitical shifts can expose fault lines within the power structure, as different factions may vie for influence or propose alternative strategies for navigating the crisis. The ability of the regime to maintain its grip on power amidst these challenges will depend on its capacity to adapt and unify its various power centers.

Furthermore, the political process itself, despite its limitations, can be a crucible for power struggles. The data mentions that "the sixth parliamentary elections have the potential to change this." While elections in Iran are heavily vetted by bodies like the Guardian Council (whose members are appointed by the Supreme Leader), they still provide a platform for different political currents to emerge and for public sentiment to be expressed, albeit in a controlled manner. Any significant shift in the composition of the parliament, even within the confines of the system, could indicate changing power dynamics or rising discontent that those in power must address. These internal and external pressures constantly test the stability of **who has power in Iran** and how it is maintained.

The Interplay of Politics, Religion, and Society

The unique blend of politics and religion in Iran means that challenges to state power are not always purely political or economic; they often have a strong socio-religious dimension. The Supreme Leader's authority, rooted in religious legitimacy, means that any significant societal discontent or theological disagreement can ripple through the power structure. Public protests, often sparked by economic grievances or social freedoms, can become direct challenges to the legitimacy of the ruling system. While the state's security apparatus is robust in quelling dissent, persistent public dissatisfaction can force subtle adjustments in policy or leadership.

Moreover, the influence of various religious institutions, powerful clerical networks, and even influential families within the revolutionary establishment can create internal factions. These groups, while generally loyal to the core principles of the Islamic Republic, may hold differing views on governance, economic policy, or foreign relations. The "power struggle looms" could refer to these internal debates and competitions for influence, especially as the country looks towards a post-Khamenei era. The intricate dance between these political, religious, and societal forces constantly shapes and reshapes **who has power in Iran**, making it a dynamic and evolving landscape rather than a static hierarchy.

Understanding Iran's Unique Power Structure

In essence, Iran has a unique power structure where the control of the country rests predominantly in the hands of the state’s Supreme Leader. As National Security News has often set out, how Iran is run and by whom is fundamentally defined by this central figure. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the Supreme Leader, is not merely a figurehead; he is the ultimate decision-maker, overseeing all branches of government and commanding the nation's most powerful institutions. This system, established by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, ensures that the Islamic Republic's core ideological principles are upheld above all else.

While an elected president manages the day-to-day affairs and represents the country internationally, their authority is deliberately circumscribed. The military and security forces, particularly the powerful Law Enforcement Force and the overarching Revolutionary Guard Corps, serve as crucial enforcers of the state's will, both domestically and regionally. External pressures, such as Israeli attacks and international sanctions, test the regime's resilience, yet they often reinforce its resolve and consolidate power around the Supreme Leader. The nuclear program, too, is a testament to this centralized power, driven by strategic national interests and overseen by the highest authority.

This complex interplay of religious, political, and military power creates a system that is both rigid in its foundational principles and adaptive in its execution. The Supreme Leader's final say on all critical matters means that while internal debates and external challenges exist, the fundamental direction of the country remains consistent with the vision of the Islamic Revolution. Understanding this unique power

Iran's Power Image | Stable Diffusion Online

Iran Military Strength Infographic, Military Power Of Iran Army charts

MIKU in Iran | Stable Diffusion Online

The Fame Scene

Unveiling Iran's Power Structure: Who Truly Holds The Reins?

Table of Contents