Ali Khamenei

By Muhammad MubashirPublished On 05 Mar 2026

Ali Hosseini Khamenei was an Iranian politician and Shia Islamic cleric who served as the second Supreme Leader of Iran from 1989 until 2026. Before becoming the country’s highest authority, he was the President of Iran from 1981 to 1989.

As Supreme Leader, he held the highest political and religious authority in Iran, overseeing the government, military, judiciary, and key national policies.

Early Life & Education

• Born: 19 April 1939

• Birthplace: Mashhad, Iran

• Father: Javad Khamenei (a religious scholar)

• Mother: Khadijeh Mirdamadi

Khamenei grew up in a religious family and studied Islamic theology in seminaries in Mashhad, Najaf, and Qom.

During the 1960s–1970s, he became involved in revolutionary movements opposing Iran’s monarchy under the Shah and was arrested multiple times for political activism.

Political Career

Iranian Revolution and Early Government

After the 1979 Iranian Revolution, Khamenei became a key political figure in the new Islamic Republic.

Major roles included:

• Member of the Revolutionary Council

• Deputy Minister of Defense

• Friday Prayer Leader of Tehran

President of Iran (1981–1989)

Khamenei served as the third President of Iran during the Iran–Iraq War, strengthening his position within the country’s leadership.

Supreme Leader of Iran (1989–2026)

After the death of Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, Khamenei was appointed Supreme Leader, making him the most powerful person in Iran.

During his leadership:

• He controlled Iran’s armed forces and security apparatus

• Influenced foreign policy and nuclear strategy

• Oversaw Iran’s political system for more than three decades

Death

Ali Khamenei died on 28 February 2026 in Tehran during a military strike amid regional conflict.

His leadership, lasting over 36 years, made him one of the longest-serving heads of state in the Middle East.

Personal Life

• Spouse: Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh

• Children: 6 (including Mojtaba Khamenei)

• Religion: Twelver Shia Islam

Khamenei was also known for writing religious and political works and delivering influential speeches on Islamic governance.

Ali Khamenei – Info