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.
Jim Otto, 'Mr. Raider' and Pro Football Hall of Famer, dies at 86
Kevin Costner sheds happy tears during 10
General Hospital's Brook Lynn and Chase tie the knot on Thursday in the second episode of a three
The unstoppable duo of Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are celebrating their 'sugar' wedding anniversary
I had a £100 shampoo lesson with Kate Hudson's hairdresser
Stock market today: World stocks advance after Wall Street closes out another winning week
What's next for Iran after death of its president in crash?
Eva Longoria is sheer perfection in see
Shooting injures 2 at Missouri high school graduation ceremony
China is source of growth and innovation: says Danone CEO