Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist)

Velayat-e Faqih, or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist, is a principle in Iran that grants a senior Islamic scholar (faqih) authority to oversee the political and religious governance of the state. Rooted in the idea that qualified Islamic jurists should lead society to ensure justice and adherence to Islamic principles, it combines religious authority with political power. Established formally after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, this system positions the Supreme Leader as the highest authority, guiding policies and maintaining the nation’s Islamic character. It aims to integrate faith-based leadership with national governance for the preservation and implementation of Islamic values.