Ebrahim Raisi: A Hardline Religious Conservative with Political Clout

Early Years and Education

Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s current president, began his religious studies at the tender age of 15 at the prestigious Qom seminary. There, he honed his knowledge under the tutelage of renowned Muslim scholars.

Judicial Career

Raisi’s judicial career took a swift trajectory. After serving as a prosecutor in various cities, he was appointed Tehran’s deputy prosecutor in his early 20s. In 1989, he became Tehran’s prosecutor, a position that placed him at the helm of the executions carried out in 1988.

Ebrahim Raisi: A Hardline Religious Conservative with Political Clout

Domestic Controversies and International Scrutiny

Raisi’s presidency has been marked by domestic controversies and international scrutiny. His handling of the protests in 2022 following the death of Mahsa Amini has drawn widespread condemnation, with the UN fact-finding mission concluding that Iran committed crimes against humanity. Raisi has also been accused of human rights violations during his time as judiciary chief.

Internationally, Raisi has maintained a confrontational stance towards the West, particularly the US. He has defied the US on the 2015 nuclear deal and condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and Syria. Raisi’s missile attack on Israel in April 2023 further escalated tensions between Iran and the international community.

Regional Tensions

Regionally, Raisi has maintained close ties with Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad and supported his regime. Iran has also been engaged in a rivalry with Israel in Syria, with Raisi vowing to confront any Israeli aggression.

Raisi’s foreign policy has been characterized by a combination of defiance and pragmatism. While he has taken a hardline stance towards Israel and the US, he has also sought to improve relations with neighboring countries, such as Iraq and Oman. Raisi’s ultimate goal is to increase Iran’s regional influence and challenge the dominance of the US and its allies.

Conclusion

Ebrahim Raisi is a complex and controversial figure. His rise to power in Iran has been marked by both domestic and international challenges. As president, he has taken a hardline stance on many issues, including human rights and foreign policy. However, he has also shown a willingness to engage with the international community and improve relations with neighboring countries.

Whether Raisi will be able to navigate the challenges facing Iran and maintain his grip on power remains to be seen. His presidency will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Iran’s future and the wider Middle East.