NDTV Explainer: How Is A Supreme Leader Chosen, Who Will Succeed Khamenei

In a significant political development, Iran has appointed senior cleric Alireza Arafi as a member of a temporary Leadership Council following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli airstrike. Khamenei, who had been the face of Iran's theocratic regime since 1989, played a pivotal role in shaping the country's domestic and foreign policies. His passing raises questions about Iran's future leadership and the selection process for a new Supreme Leader. The Supreme Leader holds substantial power over all branches of government, including the military and judiciary, making the succession process critical. Traditionally, the Assembly of Experts—a body of clerics elected by the public—plays a key role in selecting the next Supreme Leader, but the actual power dynamics may shift depending on the political landscape and the influence of various factions within Iran. As the country grapples with internal challenges and external pressures, the appointment of Arafi may indicate a temporary measure to maintain stability until a more permanent solution is established. Observers are keenly watching how this transition unfolds, as it could significantly impact Iran's domestic policies and international relations in the coming months.