Ebrahim Raisi: The Iranian Cleric and Politician

Background and Early Life

Ebrahim Raisi was born on December 14, 1960, in Mashhad, Iran. He comes from a devoutly religious family, and his father was a prominent cleric and revolutionary figure. Raisi grew up in the midst of the Islamic Revolution that transformed Iran in 1979.

Clerical and Political Career

Raisi studied religious law and jurisprudence, and he quickly rose through the ranks of the Iranian judiciary. He served as a prosecutor and judge, specializing in cases involving political and security matters. Raisi's hardline stance and close relationship with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made him a prominent figure in Iranian politics.

Presidential Election of 2021

In June 2021, Raisi was elected President of Iran. He ran on a platform of religious conservatism and economic populism, and he received a large majority of the vote. Raisi's election was seen as a victory for hardliners and a step away from the more moderate policies of his predecessor, Hassan Rouhani.

Domestic and Foreign Policy

As President, Raisi has been a staunch supporter of the Iranian regime and its policies. He has taken a hardline approach to domestic dissent, cracking down on protests and political opposition. In foreign policy, Raisi has maintained Iran's traditional anti-Western stance and has been critical of the United States and its allies.

Controversy and Criticism

Raisi's presidency has been marred by controversy. He has been accused of human rights abuses, including the execution of political prisoners during his time as a judge. Additionally, his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the country's economic crisis has drawn criticism.