In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down how Iran’s government works, explaining the role of the Supreme Leader, the structure of its theocratic system, and how leadership transitions unfold.
March 7, 2026
How does the Iranian regime… work?
Since 1979, Iran has operated as a theocracy with an asterisk.
Their ultimate authority is the Supreme Leader—a cleric (religious scholar) who answers to no earthly authority. He sets national policies, commands armed forces, appoints military chiefs and key politicians, and has the last say in all matters of state. He’s technically appointed and supervised by the Assembly of Experts, but the Assembly is vetted by a council the Supreme Leader largely controls (circular enough? See graph).
Below him sits an elected president, an elected parliament, and several oversight bodies that keep laws in check, but none of them can operate outside limits the Supreme Leader sets.
Who is Iran’s Supreme Leader?
U.S.-Israel airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei last week (Feb 28, 2026) leaving the position vacant. Ayatollah Khamenei was the second-ever Supreme Leader, ruling Iran since 1989. He succeeded Ayatollah Khomeini (yes, a different guy) who ruled from 1979-1989.
What happened in 1979?
The Islamic Revolution.
In 1979, Iran ousted their king Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, whose authoritarian measures and pro-Western reforms had many Iranians calling for a return to traditionalism.
The backlash opened the door for the then-exiled Ayatollah Khomeini to usher in a new era of strict Shia Islamic rule. (Note: ~90% of Muslims worldwide are Sunni, making Iran’s Shia majority an outlier.) His system was built on a concept called Velayat-e Faqih, which basically says a divinely guided ruler will return at the end times, but until then, a learned Islamic jurist must govern in his absence.
So, what’s next for Iran?
No one’s sure yet. Khamenei’s death doesn’t guarantee a regime change.
A temporary council is leading until the Assembly of Experts picks a successor (which could take days… or months) or until something else happens (think: military takeover or regime collapse).
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CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
War is a heavy burden that impresses upon us our world’s need for restoration. Jesus came to bear that burden of sin, lighten our load, and restore our world. Pray that the Middle East would experience that restoration and glorify the Messiah Jesus.
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28–30 (CSB) (read full passage)
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