Which statement best describes the President's relationship to the Supreme Leader?

• A. The President is sovereign and not constrained by the Leader.
• B. The President governs independently of religious authority.
• C. The President operates under the Supreme Leader's authority and Guardian Council oversight.
• D. The President can override the Guardian Council's decisions.

Answer: (C)

In Iran, ultimate political power rests with the Supreme Leader, who directs national policy, controls the armed forces, and oversees key institutions. The President runs the government and handles day-to-day administration, but his authority operates within the framework set by the Leader and is subject to oversight by the Guardian Council. The Guardian Council, which includes members appointed in part by the Leader, reviews legislation and approves or vetoes presidential candidates, shaping what the President can realistically implement. So the President does not govern independently or with sovereignty; he functions under the Leader’s authority and under Guardian Council oversight.