Ali Khamenei (born 1939) has been Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, after serving as president from 1981–1989. A senior Shia cleric, he holds the constitutionally enshrined ultimate authority over the military, judiciary, state media and key appointments (including the president, commanders and heads of major institutions).
Under his leadership Iran has preserved the Islamic Republic’s political continuity, expanded regional influence through state policy and allied groups, and overseen the country’s missile and nuclear programs. His tenure has also coincided with prolonged international sanctions, domestic political tensions and periodic popular protests.
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