Iran operates under an Islamic Republic form of government, established after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the Pahlavi monarchy and the establishment of an Islamic government. The system combines elements of a theocracy and a republic, with governance guided by Islamic principles and institutions.
At its core, the government structure centers around the Supreme Leader, a religious cleric with significant authority over the state and its policies. The Supreme Leader is the highest-ranking political and religious authority, overseeing various branches of government and possessing control over the military, judiciary, and key appointments.
The President serves as the head of government and is elected by popular vote every four years. The President’s role includes executing policies, managing domestic affairs, and representing Iran on the international stage. However, the President operates under the Supreme Leader’s ultimate authority, who holds decisive power over critical state matters.
The Parliament, known as the Islamic Consultative Assembly or Majlis, comprises elected representatives responsible for proposing and passing legislation. It holds a role in shaping domestic policy, although its authority is subject to the oversight of the Supreme Leader and constitutional vetoes.
Iran’s legal system blends Islamic law (Sharia) and civil law principles. The judiciary is independent but guided by Islamic principles, led by the Supreme Court and subordinate courts. This system reflects a unique blend of Islamic governance and republican elements, with the Supreme Leader wielding ultimate authority and guiding the nation’s direction based on Islamic teachings and principles.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
Do you want to know more about Iran’s government? Let’s take a look at these 21 interesting facts about Iran’s government.
- Supreme Leader Authority: The Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holds significant power, overseeing key governmental branches and military forces.
- Electoral Process: Iran’s elections include vetting by the Guardian Council, an appointed body, which can disqualify candidates deemed unfit by their interpretation of Islamic values.
- Religious Influence: Iran’s governance is heavily influenced by Shia Islam, with religious leaders playing a prominent role in policymaking and governance.
- Dual Government Structure: Iran operates with a dual system, blending religious authority with democratic institutions, resulting in a theocratic republic.
- Parliamentary System: The Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majlis) is the legislative body with the authority to pass laws, propose bills, and oversee the government’s actions.
- Assembly of Experts: This elected body is responsible for appointing and monitoring the Supreme Leader, and theoretically, it could remove the Supreme Leader.
- President’s Role: The President, elected every four years, manages the executive branch, implementing policies, and representing Iran internationally.
- Guardian Council: This influential body interprets the constitution, approves candidates for elections, and ensures legislative compliance with Islamic principles.
- The Expediency Council: Established to mediate between the Parliament and the Guardian Council, it advises the Supreme Leader on legislative conflicts.
- Revolutionary Guards: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful military force tasked with safeguarding the Islamic system and holds significant influence.
- Constitutional Amendments: Amendments to the Iranian constitution require the Supreme Leader’s approval, making significant changes difficult without his consent.
- Regional Influence: Iran’s government pursues an active role in regional affairs, aiming to extend its influence in the Middle East.
- Local Governance: Iran is divided into provinces, each governed by an appointed governor responsible for local administration.
- Censorship and Media Control: The government tightly controls media outlets and censors content, especially concerning political and religious matters.
- Human Rights Concerns: Iran faces criticism over human rights violations, including limitations on freedom of speech and political dissent.
- Nuclear Policy: Iran’s nuclear program has been a contentious issue globally, leading to international negotiations and agreements.
- Economic Challenges: The Iranian government faces economic challenges, including sanctions and fluctuations in oil prices, impacting the nation’s stability.
- Youth Population: Iran has a significant young population, and engaging and managing youth aspirations presents both opportunities and challenges for the government.
- Women’s Rights: Iran’s government faces scrutiny over women’s rights issues, including dress codes, access to education, and employment opportunities.
- Election Turnout: Iran’s elections often witness high turnout rates, demonstrating public engagement despite the vetting process for candidates.
- Foreign Policy: Iran maintains relationships with various countries but faces tensions, particularly with Western nations, over geopolitical issues and regional conflicts.
Iran’s government stands as a complex amalgamation of religious principles and democratic structures, encapsulated within a unique theocratic republic. With its Supreme Leader as the paramount authority, blending Islamic governance with elected representatives and institutions, Iran’s system represents a distinctive fusion of religious authority and political structures. This multifaceted system, encompassing various bodies such as the President, Parliament, and Guardian Council, operates amid regional influences and global scrutiny. Iran’s governance, entrenched in Shia Islam and guided by a mix of traditional values and contemporary policies, continues to navigate internal and external challenges while seeking to balance theocracy and democracy in the fabric of its governance.