Who is Ebrahim Raisi? This article covers his life, presidency, and the lasting impact he left on Iran and why he still remains a significant figure globally.
Who Is Ebrahim Raisi?
Ebrahim Raisi, born in 1960 in Mashhad, Iran, was a prominent political figure who served as Iran’s eighth president from 2021 until his untimely death in 2024. His tenure was marked by major domestic reforms and a strategic improvement in foreign policy, strengthening Iran’s position on the global stage.
Early Life and Judicial Career
Raisi began his religious education at the Qom Seminary at the age of 15. He quickly ascended the judicial ranks, serving as Tehran’s deputy prosecutor at 25 and later holding different influential positions, including Attorney General and Chief Justice.
Ebrahim Raisi’s Presidency: Key Achievements
Domestic Achievements
Upon assuming the presidency in August 2021, Raisi faced the dual challenges of a struggling economy and the COVID-19 pandemic. Facing stringent international sanctions, Raisi’s administration prioritized economic self-reliance. He emphasized the growth of domestic production and trade, leading to notable progress in various sectors despite external pressures.
Economic Growth & Resistance Against Sanctions
His administration focused on economic revitalization, achieving a reported 6% growth rate and attracting $11 billion in foreign investment during his tenure. Raisi also prioritized anti-corruption measures and infrastructural development, inaugurating numerous projects across Iran.
Raisi’s government undertook major infrastructure projects, including the inauguration of the diesel hydrotreating unit at Isfahan Petrorefinery. This project enhanced the production of clean fuel, aligning with environmental standards and contributing to energy self-sufficiency.