Ebrahim Raisi, a hard-line religious cleric, has been making waves as the president of Iran since his election in 2021. Known for his strategy to expand Iran’s regional influence through backing militant proxies, expediting the country’s nuclear program, and bringing the nation to the brink of war with Israel, Raisi has been a controversial figure both at home and abroad.
Despite his efforts to solidify his power, Iran has experienced its largest antigovernment protests in decades under Raisi’s leadership. The country has also faced a severe economic downturn driven by international sanctions and high unemployment, adding to the challenges facing the new president.
Raisi, who is seen as the likely successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as supreme leader, has a background deeply rooted in Iran’s Islamic Revolution. Born in Mashhad in 1960 to a devoutly religious family, Raisi quickly rose through the ranks of the country’s judiciary, eventually becoming Iran’s top judge. However, he has been accused of human rights violations, including his alleged involvement in ordering the execution of thousands of political dissidents in 1988.
During his presidency, Raisi has faced criticism for his handling of antigovernment protests and his government’s continued uranium-enrichment and ballistic missile programs. Tensions with Israel have also escalated, with Iran launching a significant attack on the country following a raid by Hamas, an Iranian-backed militant group.
As Raisi continues to navigate the challenges facing Iran, the world watches closely to see how his leadership will shape the future of the country and its relations with the international community.
