Ibrahim Raisi
Geelong: The death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash comes during one of the most challenging times for the Islamic Republic of Iran. Raisi, who held a special position in the political class, had a deep influence on Iran’s domestic policies. He was also at the center of Iran’s recent steps to improve relations with its rivals in the region. Now what will be the impact of Raisi’s demise on Iran’s domestic affairs and what will be its impact on the country’s relations in the region…it will be revealed with time. Raisi’s government was conservative and he had close relations with the country’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. There was almost no conflict or disagreement between the two sides, unlike previous governments.
important role of rich man
Raisi was considered one of the leading candidates in the race to succeed Khamenei, 85, who has held the post of the country’s supreme leader for 35 years. His widespread influence in the country’s conservative circles made him a key figure in shaping the future of Iran’s leadership. However, his death, which occurred a year before the end of his second term, occurred amid a backdrop of domestic, regional and international challenges.
Iran in difficult times
Iran is facing severe sanctions imposed by the US over its nuclear programme, which has caused significant damage to the economy and deeply impacted people’s lives. The country faced one of the most violent protest movements in its history over the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini following his arrest by police in September 2022. Local protests also took place in various parts of the country, mostly over the economic crisis and some domestic policies of the government. Furthermore, parliamentary elections in March this year saw the lowest turnout rate in the country’s history. As a result, holding new elections, which are mandatory within 50 days of Raisi’s death, poses a significant challenge to governance at such a time.
round of rumors
Not only this, the recent incidents related to the ongoing tension with Israel have created serious security challenges. Rumors have run rampant among the public that the presidential helicopter crash was the result of electronic warfare, a drone strike or even a ground attack by Israel. (State news agency IRNA said the crash was caused by “technical failure.”) Vice President Mohammad Mokhbar has now stepped in as acting president until new elections can be held. In such a situation, it is expected that those close to the supreme leader will play an important role in completing the election process with minimum challenges. As Khamenei posted on X: The country does not need to be worried or upset, because the administration of the country will not be disrupted.
Raisi’s different stance
During his tenure, Raisi shifted the country’s foreign policy more towards the Middle East, making it a top priority. This is in contrast to the policies of his predecessor Hassan Rouhani, who prioritized strengthening ties with European countries and normalizing relations with other Western countries. For example, during Raisi’s presidency, Iraq hosted five rounds of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia, culminating in the historic normalization of relations between the two in early 2023. It was clear that Iran was serious about building strategic, long-term, strong relations with its neighbors.
Relations strengthened with Russia and China
Additionally, Iran has recently conducted significant negotiations with Jordan and Egypt with the help of Iraq. Iran grew closer to both China and Russia during Raisi’s presidency, reflecting a strategic, long-term tilt toward the East supported by the supreme leader. However, Iran continued to negotiate with Western powers over its nuclear program, adopting a different strategy than during Rouhani’s tenure. Iran’s foreign policy is likely to remain the same under the new president.
Improvements will continue
The appointment of Ali Bagheri Kani as acting foreign minister following the helicopter crash (which also took the life of the current foreign minister) reinforces this continuity. Kani, who played a key role in leading the nuclear talks under Raisi, is in line with the country’s established foreign policy direction. Furthermore, Iran’s close relations with its neighbors indicate a more permanent shift from isolation, which is likely to continue to improve. (Language: The Conversation)
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