Who was Raisi? How did his death affect Iran?

Did you know that Ebrahim Raisi was an important figure in Iran before he became president? Raisi’s career in Iran’s political and judicial system symbolizes his rapid rise and great influence. He began working in the judiciary in the early 1980s and rose quickly through the ranks. By the late 1990s, he had become a major figure in Tehran’s judiciary. His involvement in the mass executions of 1988 earned him a reputation for strict application of Islamic law that continues to taint his legacy. His inauguration as president in 2021 was seen as a personal triumph and a victory for Iran’s conservative camp.

The political climate at the time of Raisi’s death

At the time of Raisi’s death in a helicopter crash, Iran was already facing a number of challenges. Western sanctions had hit the economy hard and there was widespread frustration among the population. In addition, tensions between Iran and Israel escalated during Raisi’s presidency, and Iran launched drone strikes in retaliation. As Raisi was a symbol of stability and repression, his death has plunged Iran into insecurity. How will Iran overcome the sudden leadership vacuum?

Raisi’s influence on domestic politics

The policies adopted by Raisi in Iran have a clear impact on daily life, especially the strict application of the hijab and chastity laws. These policies go beyond dress code and reflect a broader conservative agenda that often clashes with Iran’s younger generation. Following the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, protests erupted across the country, exposing a potentially unstable Iran. As a result, restrictions continued to escalate during Raisi’s reign, which had a lasting impact on the country’s social fabric.

International relations under Raisi’s rule

On the international stage, Raisi is known for his firm stance towards the West and his alliances with countries such as Russia and China. During his presidency, Iran has strengthened its relations with these countries and has often spoken out against Western policies. The question now is how his death will affect these alliances. Raisi has been a key figure in maintaining these international relations, and his departure could lead to a change in the way Iran interacts with its allies and adversaries on the world stage.

Challenges after the death of Ibrahim Raisi

In the year 2024, Iran will continue to navigate in a complex and challenging environment. Economic tensions persist, international sanctions continue to hamper economic growth and deepen public discontent. In the political arena, the vacuum created by the death of Raisi has provoked heated debates and power-shifts within the government. On the social front, the country remains divided, and ongoing protests indicate that the population is increasingly impatient with the repressive government. At the same time, Iran continues to be at the forefront of global diplomatic tensions over its nuclear ambitions, particularly in its relations with Western countries. This evolving situation poses a significant challenge to the Iranian leadership and its relations with the international community.

What will happen next for Iran?

Following Raisi’s premature departure, all eyes will be on Iran’s political hierarchy to see who will step in and take over. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is still the highest holder of power, but the President plays a key role in running the country. Raisi’s death could either consolidate Khamenei’s power or bring about a new dynamic among Iran’s political elite. How this will affect Iran’s domestic and international politics remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Iran is at a critical crossroads.