Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: Enigmatic and Ruthless, the Sworn Enemy of the US and Israel

Iran’s Supreme Leader has been the central figure in the country’s political life for over 40 years. As both a political and religious authority since 1989, Khamenei has maintained an unwavering hostility toward the United States and Israel while suppressing all forms of social unrest domestically. Initially seen as weak compared to his predecessor Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Khamenei gradually solidified his absolute influence. Despite lacking Khomeini’s religious credentials, he built a robust security apparatus that bolstered his position. As Supreme Leader, he holds ultimate control over governance, military, and judicial systems, ensuring no significant policy moves—especially concerning the U.S.—occur without his approval. While deeply skeptical of the West, particularly the U.S., Khamenei has shown tactical flexibility when Iran’s survival was threatened, such as during the 2015 nuclear deal. However, following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack supported by Tehran, regional dynamics have shifted against him. Israel has targeted key Iranian allies like Hezbollah, Houthi rebels, and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. With declining health and increasing pressure, Khamenei faces limited options as his long reign approaches its end.