What is the purpose of the Expediency Discernment Council?

• A. It elects the President
• B. It resolves disputes between the Majles and Guardian Council and offers policy guidance; its rulings are binding when endorsed by the Leader
• C. It oversees the armed forces
• D. It drafts the constitution

Answer: (B)

The Expediency Discernment Council is the body's job to resolve conflicts between Iran’s two main legislative authorities—the parliament (Majlis) and the Guardian Council—and to offer policy guidance. When the Majlis passes a law that the Guardian Council disqualifies or sends back, this council steps in to issue a ruling that settles the dispute, with the important caveat that its decision becomes binding only if the Leader endorses it. This setup gives the leadership a way to maintain overall direction while keeping the legislative process moving, balancing parliamentary initiative with judicial-constitutional review. It also functions as a venue for shaping policy beyond immediate disputes, though final binding authority rests with the Leader’s endorsement.