President of Iran from 2021 until his death in a helicopter crash in May 2024. Former
judiciary chief and prosecutor; seen as a potential successor to Khamenei. His death
triggered a snap presidential election won by Masoud Pezeshkian.

1. Origins & Formation

Clerical background; judiciary career; associated with 1988 executions.

2. Rise to Influence

Prosecutor, judiciary chief; ran for president in 2017; won in 2021.

3. Presidency

Hardline domestic policy; nuclear talks stalled; crackdown on protests.

4. Death

Killed in helicopter crash in East Azerbaijan, 19 May 2024; Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian also died.