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Wednesday, 14 October 2026 · Morning editionSydney ⛅ 16°CAUD/USD 0.6978 · AUD/EUR 0.6237About UsOur TeamSourcesContactNewsletter

Iran Supreme Leader: Role, Powers, and Succession After Khamenei

Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, died in a US-Israeli airstrike on March 1, 2026, and a new leader has reportedly been selected. This guide explains how the role works, who holds the power, and the succession process.

Current holder: Ali Khamenei (until March 2026) ·
Total in history: 3 supreme leaders since 1979 ·
Formal title: Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran ·
Appointed by: Assembly of Experts ·
Death in office: Ali Khamenei died March 2026

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