Early Years and Rise in the Judiciary
Ebrahim Raisi, born on December 14, 1960, in Mashhad, Iran, has emerged as one of the most influential figures in Iran’s political landscape. His journey began at the tender age of 15 when he joined the prestigious Qom religious seminary. There, Raisi studied under some of the most prominent clerics of the time, laying a strong foundation for his future career in both religious and political spheres.
By his early 20s, Raisi’s legal acumen and commitment to the Islamic Revolution saw him appointed as a prosecutor in several cities. His ascent continued in Tehran, where he served as a deputy prosecutor. In 1983, Raisi married Jamileh Alamolhoda, the daughter of Ahmad Alamolhoda, Mashhad’s influential Friday Prayer Imam. The couple has two daughters, solidifying Raisi’s connections within Iran’s religious elite.
The Controversial 1988 Executions
Raisi’s career took a dark turn in 1988 when he became part of a committee that oversaw the execution of thousands of political prisoners. This period remains a significant stain on his record, drawing severe criticism from Iranian opposition groups and international human rights organizations. The United States imposed sanctions on Raisi, citing his involvement in these human rights abuses.
Judicial Career and Religious Endowment Leadership
Despite this controversial past, Raisi’s career flourished. After the death of Iran’s first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, in 1989, Raisi was appointed as Tehran’s prosecutor. His relationship with Khomeini’s successor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, proved beneficial. In 2016, Raisi was appointed chairman of Astan Quds Razavi, the largest religious endowment in Mashhad, further cementing his status within Iran’s establishment.
First Presidential Bid and Ideological Stance
Raisi first entered the presidential race in 2017, challenging the incumbent Hassan Rouhani. Rouhani, known for his moderate stance and his role in negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, JCPOA), faced Raisi’s criticism of the deal and its implications. Although Raisi lost, this campaign set the stage for his eventual rise to the presidency.
Presidency and Political Challenges
In June 2021, Raisi won the presidency with 62 percent of the vote, although the election was marred by low turnout and the disqualification of several reformist and moderate candidates. By this time, the JCPOA had crumbled following the U.S. withdrawal under President Donald Trump, leading to renewed sanctions and economic hardship in Iran.
Raisi’s presidency has been marked by a continuation of hardline policies and a focus on strengthening Iran’s defense capabilities, often at the expense of addressing domestic economic woes. His tenure has seen significant public unrest, most notably following the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Amini’s death in police custody sparked widespread protests, with demonstrators, particularly women, openly defying Iran’s strict hijab laws.
Human Rights Violations and International Relations
The protests, which resulted in around 500 deaths and numerous executions, drew harsh international condemnation. A United Nations fact-finding mission in March 2024 concluded that Iran had committed crimes against humanity during the crackdown, including murder, torture, and rape.
On the international front, Raisi has navigated Iran’s complex relationship with Israel and continued support for Syria’s Bashar al-Assad. Iran’s involvement in Syria, alongside Hezbollah, has bolstered Assad’s regime while escalating tensions with Israel, which has conducted numerous strikes against Iranian targets in Syria.
Future Prospects and Potential Leadership
Despite the controversies and challenges, Raisi’s strong ties across Iran’s political and religious establishments make him a formidable figure. His close relationship with Supreme Leader Khamenei and his influential positions within the government and religious institutions position him as a leading candidate to succeed Khamenei.
As Raisi navigates his presidency amidst domestic and international turbulence, his legacy remains one of deep involvement in Iran’s most significant political and religious developments, marked by controversy and unwavering adherence to hardline principles. Whether he ascends to the role of Supreme Leader or not, Raisi’s impact on Iran’s future is undeniable.
