Ayatullah Ali Khamenei

Ayatullah Khamenei has been the single most powerful personality in Iran since the death of Ayatullah Ruhollah Khomeini made him the Supreme Leader 20 years ago. Lacking the charisma, religious rank and founding-father prestige of his predecessor, he sought to bolster his authority by supporting radical Islamic causes and appearing as the avuncular head of the Iranian family. His quick support of the disputed election result both reflects his apprehension over the reformist movement's democracy demands and exposes him as a growing target for Iranians seeking change.

— Scott Macleod

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