Briefing: 'Not a one-person regime': Why Iran's Islamic Republic is so hard to topple

The death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026, has triggered notable disruptions within Iran's governance framework. Key military and intelligence figures have been eliminated as part of ongoing strikes.

The Islamic Republic's architecture, characterized by a decentralized power structure, complicates efforts for a straightforward regime change. This system allows for resilience despite the loss of high-ranking officials.

The implications of these developments extend beyond immediate leadership changes, affecting operational capacity and strategic stability within the region.