Iran Faces Challenge at Domestic and International Fronts After Ebrahim Raisi's Death

Tehran: sudden demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his cabinet ministers in a helicopter crash on Sunday, May 19, shocked world, prompting possible democratic and national challenges for Iran. Raisi, an elite name in Islamic Republic held a potential sway in Iran over domestic policies. Given his influence, will Raisi's absence hamper Iran's capability in maintaining its domestic affairs?

As Raisi was responsible for most of decisions taken by country, clarifying uncertainty internally and with neighbouring rivals, Supremo Khamenei said, " nation doesn’t need to be worried or anxious, as ministration of country will not be disrupted."

Iran's History of Turmoil

In past few years, Iran has been dealing with dwindling conflicts nationally and internationally. In 2022, Iran witnessed one of most severe protests in its history, national outrage over death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini following her arrest by morality police.

local protests in different parts of country over economic crisis and government policies posed a significant challenge to Islamic nation.

Moreover, this year's parliamentary elections saw one of lowest voter turnout rates in country’s history. However, now holding of new elections, which is mandated within 50 days of Raisi’s death, poses a significant challenge for regime at a time when its public legitimacy is at its lowest.

How Did Raisi Come to Power and What Were His Policies?

Raisi came to power in 2021 after defeating former candidate Mohsen Mehralizeh. His background of hardline conservatism and long association with Supreme Leer, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led to Raisi's rise in Iran. duo almost h no conflicts or disagreements, which contrasts with previous governments, most of which h some distance or tension with leer.

During his tenure, unlike his predecessor, Hassan Rouhani, Raisi shifted country’s foreign policy more towards Middle East, making it "top priority," than prioritising relationships with European countries and normalising ties with or Western nations.

This includes Iran's negotiations with Jordan and Egypt, facilitated again by Iraq, where se initiatives offered a chance to move past sectarian conflicts that have long dominated region and lay groundwork for better cooperation.

In past years, Raisi also helped grow closer to China and Russia.

However, Iran's equation with West and Israel remained complex. recent escalation in ongoing conflict with Israel presented serious security concerns and gave rise to a host of conspiracy ories. Several rumours gained traction where public suggested president’s helicopter crash was result of 'electronic warfare,' or a drone attack or even a ground assault by Israel. However, IRNA state news agency said crash was due to a “technical failure."

In case of West, Iran continues to remain under severe sanctions by United States over its nuclear programme.

Will Iran's Foreign Policy Change Under New Presidency?

Amid his demise, Vice President Mohamm Mokhber has stepped in as acting president until new elections are held.

Iran’s foreign policies are likely to remain same under new president. appointment of Ali Bagheri Kani as acting foreign minister reinforces this continuity.

Kani has played a key role in leing nuclear negotiations under Raisi, aligning with country’s established foreign policy direction.

In dition, Iran’s closer relations with its neighbours signal a more permanent shift away from 'isolation.'

(With Inputs from AP)