Unholy: Two Jews on the News Emergency update: Khamenei Is Dead. What Now for Iran? - with Dr. Suzanne Maloney
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Mar 1, 2026 Dr. Suzanne Maloney, Brookings foreign policy director and Iran specialist, discusses Khamenei’s institutional power and the regime’s ideological roots. She outlines succession mechanics, the fractured state of Iranian society, and regional consequences. The conversation maps pathways for transition and the uncertain aftermath for Iran and its neighbors.
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Khamenei Turned The Supreme Leader Into A State Stranglehold
- Khamenei built the supreme leader office into a stranglehold over Iran's state through long alliances with the Revolutionary Guard and security services.
- Suzanne Maloney highlights his 37-year consolidation after 1989, turning a once-weaker role into dominant institutional control.
From Weak President To Guard Ally
- Khamenei rose from a relatively uncharismatic presidency during the Iran-Iraq War to build key ties with the Revolutionary Guard.
- Maloney recounts his early weak public profile but strategic alliance-building that later underpinned his power.
Khamenei Prioritized The Regime Over Personal Survival
- Khamenei accepted personal risk, prioritizing regime survival and revolutionary project over his own safety.
- Maloney points to his history of violence, an earlier assassination attempt, and reduced concern for personal survival near his end.