Which statement describes the composition of Iran's Guardian Council?

• A. Six clerics appointed by the President and six jurists elected by the Majles from candidates approved by the judiciary
• B. Six clerics appointed by the Supreme Leader and six jurists elected by the Majles from candidates approved by the judiciary
• C. Five clerics appointed by the Supreme Leader and five jurists elected by the Majles
• D. Six clerics elected by the people and six jurists appointed by the judiciary

Answer: (B)

The Guardian Council blends religious authority with legal expertise. It has twelve members: six clerics appointed by the Supreme Leader, and six jurists elected by the Majlis from candidates proposed or approved by the judiciary. This setup means clerical legitimacy comes from the top spiritual leader, while legal knowledge comes from parliament choosing jurists from a judiciary-vetted slate. This structure is why the council can review legislation for consistency with the constitution and Islamic law, and approve electoral candidates. The other descriptions miss the actual arrangement: clerics aren’t appointed by the President nor are the six jurists simply appointed without the Majlis selection from judiciary-approved candidates, and the numbers don’t reflect twelve total.