Raisi, who took office in August 2021 after winning 62.9% of the vote in a controversial election, was a prominent hardliner and close ally of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Often seen as a potential successor to Khamenei, Raisi’s tenure was marked by his stern policies and a contentious past.
Dubbed the ‘Butcher of Tehran’ by critics for his involvement in the execution of political prisoners in the late 80s, his leadership style has been divisive.
The sudden deaths of Raisi and his foreign minister leave Iran facing a significant political upheaval, with questions looming about the nation’s future direction and leadership.