Since 1989, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has held the position of Supreme Leader of Iran, making him the longest-serving head of state in the Middle East. In this role, Khamenei exercises absolute power over the country’s military, economy, religion and political system. Under his leadership, Iran has emerged as a regional power, leveraging its vast energy reserves and large population to build geopolitical influence internationally. Khamenei has also overseen a vast expansion of Iran’s internal security apparatus, with his regime growing increasingly centralized and politically repressive.

Despite its efforts to suppress dissent, Khamenei’s government has faced numerous protests against its rule. The most recent demonstrations began in late December, when shopkeepers in Tehran launched a strike in response to deteriorating economic conditions. Protests quickly spread to other cities across the country. While initially focused on economic troubles, demonstrators have increasingly called for the fall of the Khamenei regime. In response, the government has deployed security forces and cut off internet and telephone services nationwide.

Though Khamenei has faced widespread protests in the past, the current demonstrations appear to be escalating. Combined with an ongoing economic crisis and Khamenei’s advanced age, the future of his regime is increasingly uncertain.

This question will resolve positively if a major news outlet reports that Ali Khamenei no longer holds the position of Supreme Leader of Iran by June 30, 2026.

Iran: Ayatollah Warns Regime "Won't Back Down" amid Protests | DW