Ebrahim Raisi (ईब्राहीम रईसी)
1. Introduction of Ebrahim Raisi
- Ebrahim Raisi, the current President of Iran, has been a polarizing figure in global politics. His presidency, marked by a hardline approach and significant political influence, has garnered attention and criticism both domestically and internationally. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the life, career, and policies of Ebrahim Raisi, providing a detailed analysis of his impact on Iran and the world.
Ebrahim Raisi from School Boy to CJI of Iran and then President of Iran
- Ebrahim Raisi was born on December 14, 1960, in Mashhad, one of Iran’s most religiously significant cities. Raised in a clerical family, Raisi’s early education was steeped in Islamic teachings. He attended the esteemed Qom Seminary, where he studied under influential clerics, including the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This rigorous religious education profoundly influenced his worldview and political ideology.
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Name | Ebrahim Raisi also known as Ebrahim Raisolsadati |
Father's Name | Seyyed Hadi Raisi (Hojjat al-Islam Seyyed Haji Rais al-Sadati) |
Mother's Name | Seyida Asmat Khodadad Hosseini |
Date of Birth | 14 December 1960 |
Place of Birth | Mashhad, Iran |
Died | 19 May 2024, Uzi, East Azerbaijan, Iran |
Cause of death | Helicopter crash |
Spouse's Name | Jamileh Alamolhoda |
Children | Two Daughters |
Primary Education | Javadiyeh school |
Secondary Education | Ayatollah Boroujerdi School (Qom Seminary-religious studies) |
Religious Studies | Completed advanced studies in Islamic law under prominent clerics, including Ali Khamenei |
Political Party | Combatant Clergy Association |
Top Position held in the Iranian | 1. Chairman of General Inspection Office 2. 2nd First Deputy Chief Justice of Iran 3. Member of the Assembly of Experts 4. Prosecutor-General of Iran 5. Member of Expediency Discernment Council 6. 7th Chief Justice of Iran 7. 8th President of Iran |
2. Religious and Educational Journey of Ebrahim Raisi
- Raisi’s commitment to Islamic jurisprudence led him to pursue advanced studies in various theological subjects. His academic achievements in Islamic law laid the foundation for his future roles in the judiciary and politics. The combination of his religious background and his legal expertise positioned him as a key figure in Iran’s clerical establishment.
- Ebrahim Raisi’s political career is deeply rooted in the Iranian judiciary. Over several decades, he held numerous high-ranking positions, establishing himself as a staunch defender of the Islamic Republic’s principles. His roles included serving as the Deputy Chief Justice, Prosecutor General of Iran, and head of the Astan Quds Razavi, a significant religious and economic institution in Mashhad.
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3. Judiciary and Hardline Stance of Ebrahim Raisi
- Ebrahim Raisi’s tenure in the judiciary was marked by a strict interpretation of Islamic law and an unwavering commitment to the principles of the Islamic Revolution. He gained a reputation for his hardline stance on legal and moral issues, which resonated with Iran’s conservative factions. His approach to justice and governance often involved harsh penalties, including capital punishment, which drew criticism from human rights organizations.
4. The 2017 Presidential Election
- In 2017, Ebrahim Raisi made his first bid for the presidency. Running against the incumbent, Hassan Rouhani, Raisi positioned himself as a champion of the poor and a defender of revolutionary values. Despite a strong campaign, he was defeated, garnering 38.3% of the vote compared to Rouhani’s 57.1%. This loss, however, did not diminish his influence or ambitions.
5. Head of the Judiciary
- In 2019, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei appointed Ebrahim Raisi as the head of Iran’s judiciary. This position significantly enhanced his power and visibility. As Chief Justice, Raisi launched an anti-corruption campaign, targeting high-profile figures and institutions. While some viewed this as a genuine effort to combat corruption, others saw it as a strategic move to consolidate power and eliminate political rivals.
6. Anti-Corruption Campaign
- Ebrahim Raisi’s anti-corruption campaign focused on transparency and accountability within the government and the private sector. He established special courts to handle corruption cases swiftly, resulting in numerous high-profile arrests and trials. This initiative was part of his broader strategy to present himself as a reformer committed to justice and integrity.
7. The 2021 Presidential Election
- Ebrahim Raisi’s second presidential bid in 2021 was successful but controversial. The election saw a historically low turnout, and many potential candidates were disqualified by the Guardian Council, leading to accusations of electoral manipulation. Despite these criticisms, Raisi won a decisive victory, securing 62.9% of the vote.
8. Election Controversies
- The 2021 election was marred by allegations of unfair practices and voter suppression. Many Iranians expressed disillusionment with the political process, citing the disqualification of reformist candidates and the lack of genuine competition. This led to widespread skepticism about the legitimacy of Raisi’s mandate.
9. Presidency and Policy Directions
- Ebrahim Raisi’s presidency has been characterized by continuity in Iran’s hardline policies, particularly concerning its nuclear program and foreign relations. He has maintained a firm stance against Western pressures, insisting on Iran’s right to pursue nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
10. Domestic Policies
- Domestically, Ebrahim Raisi has focused on economic reform and combating corruption. His administration has faced significant challenges, including international sanctions, economic instability, and public discontent. Raisi has pledged to improve living standards and address the needs of the poor, but his efforts have been hampered by ongoing economic difficulties.
11. International Relations and the Nuclear Deal
- Raisi’s approach to international relations has been marked by a commitment to preserving Iran’s sovereignty and resisting external pressures. He has been critical of the United States and its allies, particularly regarding the 2015 nuclear deal. While his administration has engaged in negotiations to revive the deal, Ebrahim Raisi has insisted on lifting all sanctions and guaranteeing Iran’s economic benefits.