Supreme Leader of Iran

The struggle between the Guards and the Speaker

While Ruhollah Khomeini built the revolution, his successor Ali Khamenei built a state designed to survive him. With his son and heir Mojtaba absent from the funeral, what next for the regime?

Questions abound regarding the appointment, health, and role of Mojtaba Khamenei, who replaced his father on 9 March, a week after he was assassinated

Tehran will return to nuclear negotiations with far fewer cards. Even if it seeks a token gesture on enrichment, that could be rejected. Remaining options include capitulation or even civil war.

In the event of a government collapse, interim leadership could assume power. And although a return to monarchy is unlikely, it cannot be ruled out.

An important institutional body with an 8-year term, this collection of ageing and sclerotic clerics is meant to wield real power by overseeing the Supreme Leader. In practice, they simply nod along.