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Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

2026-03-01 11:11:00, Blog CNA

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, died yesterday at the age of 86 after a US-Israeli attack on Iran.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

Known as a sworn enemy of the West, his death not only marks the end of an era, but also jeopardizes the future of the regime in Iran.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

Khamenei's childhood

Born on April 19, 1939, in Mashhad, Iran, Khamenei completed his primary education, completed Islamic Studies at the seminary, and received advanced theological training. He was also known for his deep interest in poetry and literature, according to reports.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

First steps towards politics

In the early 1960s, he joined Ayatollah Khomeini's movement against the Shah of Iran. As mass protests swept Iran in 1978-1979, Khamenei emerged in Mashhad as a major leader.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Khamenei joined the Revolutionary Council. He served as deputy defense minister and a member of parliament. Khamenei and the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

Appointment as Supreme Leader

In 1981, Khamenei became president, serving two consecutive terms until 1989. He survived an assassination attempt that permanently damaged his right arm. Coincidentally, it was a Saturday. After Khomeini's death in June 1989, Iran's Assembly of Experts appointed Khamenei as Supreme Leader.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

Khamenei's rule

Critics say Khamenei ruled with an iron fist characterized by stifling dissent and introducing numerous reforms. However, he was also hugely popular and seen as a defender of Iran's sovereignty against foreign pressure, especially from the West.

Sworn Enemy of the West/Who was Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei?

What comes after Khamenei?

Khamenei is dead, and this has exposed the Iranian regime, although the regime has insisted that they were prepared for such a situation in advance. A Provisional Governing Council has taken over temporary duties. The government has declared 40 days of public mourning. A successor will be chosen soon./ CNA