What is the composition and main role of the Assembly of Experts?

• A. A cabinet of advisors to the President.
• B. A body of clerics elected by the people that supervises and can elect/dismiss the Supreme Leader.
• C. A military committee that governs defense policy.
• D. A group of business leaders advising on economic policy.

Answer: (B)

This question tests knowledge of the Assembly of Experts: who makes it up and what power it holds. It is a body of Islamic clerics elected by the Iranian people to eight-year terms. Its main function is to supervise the Supreme Leader and, if necessary, elect a new one or dismiss the current Leader. Members meet to assess the Leader’s performance and ensure his actions align with Islamic law and the constitution. While the Leader has the ultimate authority, the Assembly provides a constitutional mechanism for accountability over him. This is why the description of a body of clerics elected by the people that supervises and can elect/dismiss the Supreme Leader is the best fit. The other options describe advisory groups that do not have this clerical, supervisory role over the Leader.