What are the core constitutional limits on presidential power in Iran?

• A. President is head of government and can propose policies and sign treaties but subject to Guardian Council vetting and Leader approval for key posts; he lacks control over the armed forces, judiciary, and other unelected bodies
• B. President has direct control over the armed forces
• C. President can unilaterally dissolve the Majles
• D. President can appoint Guardian Council clerics

Answer: (D)

In Iran, the president operates within a system where non‑elected authorities and the Leader place real limits on executive power. The President can propose policies and sign treaties, but his power is curbed by two main forces: the Guardian Council and the Leader. The Guardian Council reviews legislation to ensure it conforms to the constitution and Sharia, and it also vets candidates for elections and high-level posts, meaning the president’s ability to push through laws or personnel is filtered through this body. The Leader has authority to approve or appoint key posts, including major security and judicial positions, which further constrains presidential initiative. Because of these structures, the president does not control the armed forces or the judiciary, and he does not appoint Guardian Council clerics themselves. This combination—Guardian Council involvement and Leader approval for key posts—best captures the constitutional limits on presidential power in Iran.