Irans Succession Process Sparks Uncertainty Over Next Supreme Leader
March 5, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Iran’s Assembly of Experts to Elect Next Supreme Leader
The Assembly of Experts, a body responsible for selecting the country’s supreme leader, has taken on its new role. The assembly previously chose Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as Iran’s supreme leader in 1989.
According to established procedures, the assembly will now be tasked with choosing the next supreme leader. This process is governed by Iran’s constitution and laws.
The Assembly of Experts is a group of 86 clerical and judicial experts who are elected by the people for a six-year term. Their primary responsibility is to select the country’s supreme leader, who serves as the head of state and the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
In 1989, the assembly chose Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has held the position ever since. The selection process involves a vote among the assembly members, with the candidate receiving the majority of votes being elected to the position.
The assembly’s decision will have significant implications for Iran’s government and politics. The next supreme leader is expected to take office soon, although an exact date has not been announced.
The Assembly of Experts’ role in selecting the country’s leadership is a key aspect of Iran’s governance system. The body’s decisions are guided by the country’s constitution and laws, which provide a framework for the selection process.
As the assembly begins its new task, it will be following established procedures and guidelines. The outcome of this process will have important implications for Iran’s future political landscape.
Source: Al Jazeera