The recent death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has sent shockwaves through the country’s political landscape, raising concerns about the stability of the regime and the potential for further unrest in the region. Raisi, who was elected in June 2021, was known for his hardline stance on domestic and foreign policy issues, and his sudden passing has left a void in Iran’s leadership that could have far-reaching implications.
Raisi’s death comes at a perilous moment for the Iranian regime, as the country grapples with a myriad of challenges, including a struggling economy, widespread corruption, and growing discontent among the population. In recent months, Iran has also faced increased international pressure over its nuclear program and support for militant groups in the Middle East, further complicating the political landscape for the incoming leadership.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Raisi’s death, experts believe that his passing is unlikely to result in any significant changes to Iran’s foreign policy. The country’s foreign policy is largely determined by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who wields ultimate authority over all major decisions, including those related to relations with other countries.
Khamenei, who has been in power since 1989, is known for his hardline stance on issues such as Iran’s nuclear program, its support for militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, and its rivalry with regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Israel. It is unlikely that the death of President Raisi will lead to a shift in these policies, as Khamenei is expected to continue to exert his influence over the country’s foreign affairs.
Furthermore, the upcoming presidential elections in June 2025 will likely see the appointment of another hardline candidate who is aligned with Khamenei’s vision for Iran, further solidifying the regime’s commitment to its current foreign policy objectives.
Despite the challenges facing the Iranian regime in the wake of President Raisi’s death, it is unlikely that there will be any significant changes to the country’s foreign policy in the near future. As long as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains in power, Iran’s foreign policy is likely to remain unchanged, regardless of who holds the presidency.