How Iran’s Political System Works: Government Structure Explained Simply

Iran’s political system is a hybrid theocracy and democracy, based on the Islamic Republic model created after the 1979 revolution. It blends Islamic law (Sharia) and clerical oversight with elements of electoral politics. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

🔺 Supreme Leader (Rahbar) – Most Powerful Figure

• Currently: Ali Khamenei (since 1989)

• Powers:

  • Commander-in-chief of the armed forces

  • Appoints key positions: judiciary head, military leaders, state broadcasting chief, and more

  • Oversees and can overrule president and parliament

  • Appoints half of the Guardian Council

• Chosen by: Assembly of Experts (clerics elected by the people)

🏛️ Guardian Council – Powerful Vetting Body

• 12 members:

  • 6 clerics appointed by the Supreme Leader

  • 6 lawyers nominated by judiciary and approved by parliament

• Roles:

  • Approves or rejects all laws passed by parliament (based on Islamic and constitutional compatibility)

  • Vets all candidates for president, parliament, and Assembly of Experts elections

🏛️ President – Head of Government (But Not Head of State)

• Elected every 4 years (2-term limit)

• Oversees the executive branch: economy, domestic policy, ministries

• Cannot control military or foreign policy without Supreme Leader’s approval

• Must be approved by the Guardian Council to run

🏛️ Parliament (Majles) – Legislative Body

• 290 members, elected every 4 years

• Can propose and pass laws

• Can impeach ministers and the president

• All laws must be approved by the Guardian Council

🏛️ Assembly of Experts – Chooses & Can Dismiss Supreme Leader

• 88 clerics, elected every 8 years by the people

• Must be vetted by the Guardian Council

• In theory, they oversee and assess the Supreme Leader’s performance

🏛️ Expediency Discernment Council

• Resolves legislative disputes between the Majles and Guardian Council

• Advises the Supreme Leader

🛡️ Judiciary

• Enforces Islamic law

• Head of Judiciary is appointed by the Supreme Leader

🗳️ Elections in Iran

• Held regularly for president, parliament, and local councils

• Heavily controlled through candidate vetting by the Guardian Council

• Limited competition: reformist candidates are often disqualified

📊 Summary: Who Has the Real Power?