The Islamic Republic of Iran features a unique and complex political system that blends elements of a modern representative democracy with a theocratic framework. The system is based on the concept of 'Velayat-e Faqih' (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist).
The Supreme Leader is the highest-ranking political and religious authority, holding immense power over the military, judiciary, and state media. The President is the second-highest official, elected by popular vote to a four-year term, and is responsible for managing the day-to-day affairs of the government and the economy.
The legislative branch consists of the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majlis), a 290-seat parliament elected by the public. However, all legislation and political candidates must be vetted and approved by the Guardian Council, an unelected body of clerics and jurists. The Assembly of Experts is a deliberative body of Islamic scholars charged with appointing and overseeing the Supreme Leader. Administratively, Iran is divided into 31 provinces, each governed by an appointed governor-general.
