Reuters has uncovered the structure of real power in Iran amid the conflict with the U.S. and Israel

Iran has undergone a radical transformation of its governance system, as a result of which the country has effectively lost its single center of decision-making. 

This is according to an analysis by Reuters. 

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the conflict, the role of Supreme Leader passed to his son Mojtaba; however, he performs a largely ceremonial function of legitimizing actions initiated by the military.

Key levers of influence are concentrated in the hands of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Supreme National Security Council. According to Pakistani sources familiar with the course of diplomatic contacts, the lack of a clear chain of command is leading to delays in Tehran’s response: replies to proposals can take several days to prepare. While Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi conducts official dialogue, real decisions on the ground are made by IRGC Commander Ahmad Vahidi.

The complexity of the situation is exacerbated by the disconnect between Washington’s diplomatic initiatives and the intransigence of the IRGC’s radical wing. Mojtaba Khamenei, due to severe injuries, remains a private figure, interacting with his inner circle only via secure communications. The weakening of central authority in Iran creates additional risks for regional stability, which in the long term could affect the intensity of support for Russia’s allies in the Middle East.