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.
Hall of Fame outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. to lead Indianapolis 500 field in Corvette pace car
Salma Hayek, 57, puts on a busty display as she shows off her chest and tiny waistline in a blue
United Airlines reports $124 million loss in a quarter marred by grounding of some Boeing planes
Dortmund digs deep to beat Atlético 4
What's next for Iran after death of its president in crash?
Nicky Hilton shows off her chic style as she's joined by mini
There IS a link between women's periods and the moon after all, study finds
Man gets 4 death sentences for kidnapping, rape and murder of 5
I was 'brokefished' by my friend for £400
Jonathan Bailey linked to lead role in Jurassic World film directed by Gareth Edwards
Siblings trying to make US water polo teams for Paris Olympics
DeSantis signs bill limiting Florida book challenges