Iran

Iran, formerly known as Persia, is a country located in Western Asia. The capital city is Tehran, the official language is Persian, and the majority of the population are Shia Muslims. The country is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the north and the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman to the south, giving it a strategic position controlling the Strait of Hormuz.

The present system of government emerged from the revolution of 1979, which overthrew the Pahlavi monarchy and established an Islamic Republic. The system of power combines elected bodies (a president and parliament) with unelected religious bodies, all ultimately subordinate to the position of Supreme Leader.

Political System

The Supreme Leader holds the greatest executive power: appointing the heads of the armed forces, the judiciary, and state media, while also setting the general direction of foreign and security policy. The Supreme Leader is chosen by and accountable to the Assembly of Experts, which is itself elected. The Guardian Council vets candidates for elections, meaning that electoral competition is subject to a preliminary filter. Analysts therefore describe the system as hybrid, combining elements of democracy with theocratic rule.

Population and Society

Iran is among the most populous countries in the region, with a population exceeding 80 million. The country has undergone significant demographic change: a long-term decline in fertility rates, rapid urbanization, and an aging population. Society is ethnically diverse—Persians, Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Lurs, Arabs, Baluch, and others.

Economy

Iran's economy is heavily dependent on oil and gas, but international sanctions—particularly those imposed by the United States—have restricted oil sales and access to the global financial system. In recent years, reports attributed to the IMF have indicated inflation rates near or above 30% and weak economic growth. The exchange rate of the rial against foreign currencies has also declined over time, affecting household purchasing power.

Nuclear Program and International Tensions

Iran's nuclear program is among the most significant issues in the country's relations with the West. Iran states that the program is peaceful and intended for energy and medical purposes, while Western governments and Israel have expressed concern that it may be aimed at weapons development. The 2015 agreement (JCPOA) imposed restrictions on uranium enrichment and eased some sanctions, but the U.S. withdrawal in 2018 led to renewed tensions.