In October, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei, declared Israel's demise imminent. This followed the killing of Hezbollah's leader, a personal blow. The ongoing Israeli attacks and weakened proxy forces present a challenge for Khamenei.
Khamenei, a pragmatic revolutionary, rose through the ranks after the 1979 revolution. He was influenced by Khomeini and built a power base, including the IRGC. He consolidated control, eliminating opponents and supporting proxies to project power.
He allowed some reform but protected the regime's core. He was skeptical of the nuclear deal but did not oppose it. Repression and economic issues have fueled unrest.
Khamenei invested in the "axis of resistance," which has faltered. His modest lifestyle has deflected criticism. Now ailing, his long career is ending, facing its greatest challenge.
5 Comments
Comandante
This man and his regime have no credibility. Their actions speak much louder than their words.
Donatello
The IRGC is his enforcer. A tool of suppression, not protection.
Michelangelo
His 'greatest challenge'? The Iranian people's desire for freedom is the real challenge.
Leonardo
I respect his fight for Iran, it would be difficult to know more than he does.
Donatello
He navigates a difficult situation. His careful handling of complex geopolitics has not been noted by many.