JERUSALEM (AP) — The death of Iran’s president is unlikely to lead to any immediate changes in Iran’s ruling system or to its overarching policies, which are decided by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
But Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash Sunday, was seen as a prime candidate to succeed the 85-year-old supreme leader, and his death makes it more likely that the job could eventually go to Khamenei’s son.
A hereditary succession would pose a potential crisis of legitimacy for the Islamic Republic, which was established as an alternative to monarchy but which many Iranians already see as a corrupt and dictatorial regime.
Here’s a look at what comes next.
Iran holds regular elections for president and parliament with universal suffrage.
But the supreme leader has final say on all major policies, serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and controls the powerful Revolutionary Guard.
Devout Christian doctor, 68, who punched dementia
China's gigantic telescope embraces int'l exchanges, innovative development
Rachel Zegler and Kit Connor are confirmed to make Broadway debuts in Romeo + Juliet
Biden touts progress on economy, immigration despite wide disapproval
Hall of Fame outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. to lead Indianapolis 500 field in Corvette pace car
Inside Victoria Beckham's extensive wardrobe as she turns 50: From multi
Holistic pursuit of national security lays solid groundwork for China's rejuvenation cause
Kim Kardashian credits North West, 10, for taking her sultry vacation pictures in Turks and Caicos
I was 'brokefished' by my friend for £400
Sydney shopping mall reopens after stabbings. Police make first arrest in riot after church attack
Amtrak train hits pickup truck in upstate New York, 3 dead including child
Sydney boy accused of stabbing 2 clerics showed no signs of radicalization, Muslim leader says