What powers does the Supreme Leader have over Iran's military and security services?

• A. Appoints the heads of the armed forces and the IRGC, directs security policy, and can influence key security appointments.
• B. Has no role in security policy or appointments.
• C. Directs only ceremonial duties in the security domain.
• D. Can dissolve the armed forces at will.

Answer: (A)

In Iran, the Supreme Leader holds the ultimate say over national security and the military. He directly appoints the top commanders of the armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), directs broad security policy, and can influence who fills other key security positions. This centralized authority ensures that the leadership of the security services remains aligned with the regime’s priorities and ideology.

The idea that he has no role, that his duties are purely ceremonial, or that he can dissolve the armed forces at will contradict how Iran’s system is designed. The Leader’s power over security and military matters is fundamental to how the regime maintains control.