Which government entity holds the most power in Iran?

• A. The Supreme Leader
• B. The Guardian Council
• C. The President
• D. The Majles

Answer: (A)

Power in Iran sits with a figure who holds ultimate authority over religion, security, and state policy. The Supreme Leader is not elected by a broad popular vote and, once in office, controls the core levers of power: he appoints the head of the judiciary, the leaders of the armed forces and security services, and he guides or directly influences key bodies that shape elections and legislation. He has influence over the Guardian Council, including the power to affect which candidates can run and which laws survive, and he can direct high-level policy and foreign affairs through control of these institutions and advisory councils that resolve major political disputes.

Because these roles—judiciary control, military and security leadership, election oversight, and policy direction—sit under the Leader’s authority, he can shape outcomes across government in a way no other single body can. The President operates within this framework and handles day-to-day governance, but is subordinate to the Leader. The Majles can pass laws, yet their work is checked by the Guardian Council and ultimately aligned with the Leader’s oversight. The Guardian Council wields veto power and candidate screening, but its authority is ultimately anchored in the Leader’s ability to appoint and influence key components of the system.