Publication

This brief analyzes the implications that the election of Rouhani in 2013 will have on Iran's politics and foreign policy. It argues that Rouhani's middle-of-the-road approach may signal the start of major economic and political reforms. However, it also says the development of this potential depends on whether Rouhani can gain the support of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei. Even if Rouhani can gain this support, the author argues, he will still have to depend on the Leader holding the security apparatus in line, and deal with external developments and the demands of protestors.