Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, a hardline figure known for his tough stance on morality issues and crackdown on protests, has emerged as a key contender to be Iran’s next supreme leader. Raisi’s helicopter crashed in mountainous terrain on Sunday, sparking concerns about his safety and raising questions about the future leadership of the country.
Raisi, 63, rose to power in 2021 after winning a controversial election that saw many of his rivals disqualified. His victory consolidated power in the hands of hardliners loyal to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, paving the way for a more conservative agenda in Iran.
One of Raisi’s key priorities has been to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with six major powers, in hopes of easing U.S. sanctions on Iran. However, talks have stalled, and Raisi’s uncompromising stance has raised concerns about the country’s future diplomatic relations.
Domestically, Raisi has faced criticism for his crackdown on dissent and strict enforcement of morality laws, including restrictions on women’s dress and behavior. The death of a young Kurdish Iranian woman, Mahsa Amini, in custody after allegedly violating these laws, sparked nationwide protests and a violent crackdown by security forces.
Despite his hardline policies, Raisi’s popularity at home has waned due to ongoing economic struggles and widespread discontent with the ruling clerical elite. Critics accuse him of human rights abuses and ties to past atrocities, including the execution of political prisoners in 1988.
As Iran grapples with internal unrest and external pressures, the future of the country remains uncertain under the leadership of Ebrahim Raisi.