Welcome to DU!
The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards.
Join the community:
Create a free account
Support DU (and get rid of ads!):
Become a Star Member
Latest Breaking News
Editorials & Other Articles
General Discussion
The DU Lounge
All Forums
Issue Forums
Culture Forums
Alliance Forums
Region Forums
Support Forums
Help & Search
What the Death of Iran's President Means for the Middle East and the World - William Spaniel
On May 19, 2024, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's helicopter crashed during a return flight from Azerbaijan. Although it seems that all of the political power in Iran is concentrated in the Ayatollah, that is not quite right. The president has a fair bit of leeway, and the fact that an election will have to be held soon matters for regime security regardless. This video explores the deeper consequences of the accident and what might happen next in Iran.
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
Thanks to the Romanian National History Museum for the image of the Romanian Revolution.
0:00 The Death of Iran's President Does Matter
0:23 Background: Why Ebrahim Raisi Went to Azerbaijan
1:41 Details of the Helicopter Crash
2:31 Concerns about Foul Play
3:56 A Manufactured Rally 'Round the Flag?
4:38 Sanctions and the West's Complicated Role
5:42 Why the Iranian President Is Not Powerless
6:10 Raisi as a Future Ayatollah
7:13 The Upcoming Special Election
7:59 Protest Concerns in Iran
8:39 The New Election as a Trial Balloon
10:22 Possible Changes to Iranian Policies
11:24 A Window of Opportunity for the West
12:31 Closing Thoughts