Famous Iranian Political Leaders

Mohammad Mosaddegh was an Iranian politician, author, and lawyer who served as the 30th Prime Minister of Iran from 1951 to 1953. He was a member of the Iranian parliament from 1923 and introduced various social and political measures during his administration, including social security, land reforms, and nationalization of the Iranian oil industry. His government was overthrown in the 1953 Iran coup orchestrated by UK and US intelligence agencies. Mosaddegh was imprisoned, put under house arrest, and eventually buried in his own home.

Shapur I, the second Sasanian King of Kings of Iran, ruled from 240 to 270. He assisted his father Ardashir I in conquests, expanding the empire and waging wars against the Roman Empire. Shapur achieved victories in battles, such as capturing Roman Emperor Valerian. He plundered Roman cities, gaining riches and captives. Shapur promoted scholarship by relocating captives to Gundeshapur. He enhanced Zoroastrianism, built fire temples, and revitalized cities. Shapur's reign marked by military successes, cultural advancements, and administrative reforms.

Zerubbabel was a governor of the Achaemenid Empire's province of Yehud during the 6th century BC. He led the first group of Jews who returned from Babylonian captivity under the rule of Cyrus the Great. Zerubbabel is credited with laying the foundation of the Second Temple in Jerusalem shortly after their return. His leadership and role in rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple were significant in the restoration of the Jewish community after the exile in Babylon.

Nizam al-Mulk, also known as Abu Ali Hasan ibn Ali Tusi, was a prominent Persian scholar, jurist, political philosopher, and vizier of the Seljuk Empire. Rising from a humble position, he became the de facto ruler of the empire for two decades following the assassination of Sultan Alp Arslan. Renowned as a model vizier, he is considered one of the most significant statesmen in Islamic history. His enduring contributions include establishing the Nizamiyya madrasas and writing the influential political treatise, the Siyasatnama, which shaped governance in the Muslim world for centuries.

Shapour Bakhtiar was an Iranian politician who served as the last Prime Minister of Iran under Mohammad Reza Pahlavi's rule. He was known for his vocal warnings about the dangers of clerical despotism and the potential darkness of mullah-led fascism. His professional life was marked by efforts to advocate for secular governance and resist the increasing influence of religious authorities in politics. Tragically, Bakhtiar and his secretary were murdered in his home in France in 1991 by agents of the Islamic Republic.

Shapur II, also known as Shapur the Great, was the longest-reigning monarch in Iranian history, reigning as the tenth Sasanian King of Kings. His rule marked a military resurgence and territorial expansion, initiating the first Sasanian golden era. He successfully led military campaigns against Arab insurrections, earning the nickname 'Dhū'l-Aktāf'. Shapur II implemented a strict religious policy, completing the collection of the Avesta and punishing heresy and apostasy. He persecuted Christians in reaction to the Christianization of the Roman Empire but was friendly towards Jews, granting them relative freedom and advantages.

Fazlollah Zahedi was an Iranian lieutenant general, statesman, and military strongman known for his role in replacing Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh through a coup d'état supported by the United States and the United Kingdom. He served as the Prime Minister of Iran following the coup and was involved in various military and political activities during his career. Zahedi's leadership was marked by his close ties with foreign powers and his efforts to maintain stability and control in Iran during a tumultuous period in the country's history.

Amir Kabir served as chief minister to Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, implementing reforms and modernization efforts in Iran. He established the first center for higher education and the second Persian-language newspaper. Kabir worked to eliminate bribery and torture, restructured the tax and financial systems, and ordered the suppression of Babism, including the execution of its founder. Despite his contributions, he was later exiled and ultimately murdered on the orders of the Shah. Kabir is widely regarded as Iran's first reformer.

Ardeshir Zahedi was a prominent Iranian politician and diplomat known for his service as the country's foreign minister from 1966 to 1971. He also held key diplomatic positions as Iran's ambassador to the United States and the United Kingdom during the 1960s and 1970s. Zahedi made significant contributions to Iran's foreign relations during his tenure, playing a crucial role in shaping the country's international policies and representing Iran on the global stage with skill and diplomacy.

Sogdianus briefly ruled the Achaemenid Empire for about six months in 424-423 BC. His reign and kingdom were poorly recognized, with most information coming from the writings of the unreliable historian Ctesias. Sogdianus was believed to be an illegitimate son of Artaxerxes I by his concubine Alogyne of Babylon. Despite his short-lived rule, Sogdianus left a mark in Persian history as a minor ruler within the Achaemenid Empire.

Hassan Rouhani is an Iranian Islamist politician who served as the seventh president of Iran from 2013 to 2021. He is a sharia lawyer, academic, former diplomat, and Islamic cleric. Rouhani has been a member of various influential bodies in Iran, including the Assembly of Experts, the Expediency Council, and the Supreme National Security Council. He has held roles such as deputy speaker of the Parliament of Iran, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, top negotiator on nuclear technology, Shia mujtahid, and economic trade negotiator. Rouhani is known for his centrist and reformist policies, promoting personal freedom, women's rights, and improved diplomatic relations with other countries.

Bahram Chobin, also known as Mehrbandak, was a nobleman, general, and political leader of the late Sasanian Empire. He rose through the ranks starting as the governor of Ray and eventually becoming the army chief of the northwestern regions. Known for his military prowess, Bahram led successful campaigns against enemies like the Byzantines and invaders in Khorasan. Despite facing opposition from the Sasanian king, Hormizd IV, Bahram's rebellion aimed to restore the Arsacid Empire and uphold Zoroastrian beliefs, ultimately leading to his demise at the hands of Khosrow II.

Ahmad Qavam, also known as Qavam os-Saltaneh, was a prominent Iranian politician who held the position of Prime Minister of Iran on five separate occasions. He played a significant role in Iranian politics during the early 20th century, serving in various government roles and working to navigate the complex political landscape of the time. Qavam was known for his diplomatic skills and ability to negotiate with foreign powers, as well as his efforts to modernize and advance Iran's political and economic interests.

Hushang Ansary is an Iranian-American former diplomat, businessman, and philanthropist with extensive experience in the Iranian government and international business. He held significant roles such as Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance and Iran's Ambassador to the United States. He has also served as chairman or director of companies in both Iran and the United States. However, in 2021, he faced legal issues related to defrauding policyholders of a Dutch Caribbean insurer, indicating a controversial aspect to his otherwise distinguished professional life.

Maryam Namazie is a prominent British-Iranian secularist, communist, and human rights activist, commentator, and broadcaster. She serves as the Spokesperson for Fitnah – Movement for Women’s Liberation, One Law for All, and the Council of Ex-Muslims of Britain. Namazie is recognized for her advocacy against Islam and Islamism, championing the rights of apostasy and blasphemy. Through her work, she has established herself as a fearless defender of human rights, particularly focusing on issues affecting women and ex-Muslims in Britain and beyond.

Mohammad Khatami is an Iranian reformist politician who served as the fifth president of Iran from 1997 to 2005. He also held the position of Iran's Minister of Culture from 1982 to 1992. Khatami gained international recognition for his liberalization and reform agenda during his presidency, emphasizing freedom of expression, tolerance, civil society, and constructive diplomacy. He proposed the concept of Dialogue Among Civilizations in response to Clash of Civilizations theory. Khatami advocated for a free market economy, foreign investment, and closer diplomatic ties with various countries during his tenure.

Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani was a prominent Iranian politician who held various influential positions throughout his 40-year career. He served as the fourth president of Iran from 1989 to 1997, played a key role in the Assembly of Experts and the Expediency Discernment Council, and was a significant figure during the Iran-Iraq War. Rafsanjani was known for his pragmatic Islamic conservative views, advocating for a capitalist free market domestically and a moderate international stance to avoid conflict with Western powers.

Aga Khan I was the 46th imam of the Nizari Isma'ilis and served as the governor of Kirman. He was a prominent leader in Iran and later in the Indian subcontinent. Notably, he was the first Nizari imam to hold the title Aga Khan. His professional life was marked by leadership within the Isma'ili community and his role as a governor, influencing both political and religious spheres in Iran and India.

Mehdi Bazargan was an Iranian scholar, academic, and pro-democracy activist who played a pivotal role in the Iranian Revolution of 1979. He was appointed as Iran's first prime minister after the revolution by Ayatollah Khomeini. Bazargan also served as the head of Iran's interim government. Prior to his political career, he was the head of the first engineering department at the University of Tehran. Bazargan's tenure as prime minister was marked by his principled resignation in response to the U.S. Embassy takeover, reflecting his commitment to democratic values.

Hossein Fatemi was an Iranian scholar and close associate of Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh. He proposed the nationalization of Iranian oil and gas assets and served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1951 to 1953. Fatemi's career also included journalism. Following the 1953 coup d'état that ousted Mosaddegh, Fatemi was arrested, tortured, and ultimately executed by a firing squad after being convicted of treason against the Shah by a military court.

Hamid Kohram was an Iranian politician and veterinarian known for his significant contributions in public service. He represented Ahwaz in the Iranian Parliament from 2000 to 2004 and also held the position of Director General of the Scholarships Office and Student Exchange at the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology. Notably, he played a key role as the head of Hassan Rouhani's campaign in Khuzestan province during the 2017 presidential election. Kohram's dedication to public service and political involvement made him a respected figure in Iran until his unfortunate passing from COVID-19 in 2020.

Mostafa Chamran was a prominent figure in post-revolutionary Iran, serving as the first defense minister and a member of parliament. He was also known for his role as the commander of paramilitary volunteers during the Iran-Iraq War, overseeing the Irregular Warfare Headquarters. Aside from his political roles, Chamran was a skilled physicist and guerrilla fighter, showcasing his diverse talents and dedication to his country. Tragically, he was killed during the Iran-Iraq War, leaving behind a significant legacy in Iranian history.

Mohammad-Taqi Bahar, also known as Malek osh-Sho'arā, was a distinguished Iranian poet, scholar, politician, journalist, historian, and Professor of Literature. His work was deeply rooted in tradition and characterized by strong nationalist themes. Bahar's contributions spanned various fields, showcasing his versatile talents and wide-ranging expertise. He left a lasting impact on Persian literature and culture through his prolific writings and academic pursuits. Additionally, his legacy was further enriched by his role as a mentor and father to the accomplished Iranist, linguist, mythologist, and Persian historian Mehrdad Bahar.

Masoud Barzani is a prominent Kurdish politician known for his leadership in the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) since 1979. He served as the President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from 2005 to 2017. Throughout his career, Barzani has played a significant role in advocating for Kurdish rights and autonomy in Iraq, as well as in promoting stability and development in the region. His long-standing leadership and influence within the KDP have solidified his position as a key figure in Kurdish politics.

Ali Reza Pahlavi was involved in various professional pursuits throughout his life. He had a strong interest in history and archaeology and pursued studies in these fields. He also had a passion for photography and was known for his artistic talents. Additionally, he was actively involved in promoting cultural and humanitarian causes, advocating for the preservation of Iranian heritage and supporting charitable organizations. Despite facing personal challenges, he strived to make a positive impact through his professional endeavors.

Ayatollah Ruhollah Musavi Khomeini was an Iranian Islamic revolutionary, politician, and religious leader. He served as the first supreme leader of Iran from 1979 until his death in 1989. Khomeini was the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the main leader of the Iranian Revolution. He was a high ranking cleric in Twelver Shi'ism, an ayatollah, marja', Mujtahid, and author of over 40 books. Khomeini was known for his religiopolitical theory of Guardianship of the Jurist and his opposition to the White Revolution.

Moshe Katsav was an Israeli politician who served as the eighth President of Israel from 2000 to 2007. He was a prominent Likud member in the Israeli Knesset and held ministerial positions. Katsav was the first Mizrahi Jew to be elected President of Israel. His tenure ended in controversy due to allegations of rape and sexual harassment, leading to his resignation in 2007. Katsav was later convicted of rape, obstruction of justice, and other charges, resulting in a seven-year prison sentence.

Mir-Hossein Mousavi Khameneh is an Iranian reformist politician, artist, and architect who served as the last Prime Minister of Iran from 1981 to 1989. He was a prominent figure in the Iranian Revolution, holding key positions such as editor-in-chief of Jomhouri-e Eslami and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Mousavi later emerged as a reformist candidate in the 2009 presidential election, challenging incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Despite alleged electoral fraud, his campaign sparked nationwide protests against the government and Supreme Leader, leading to his continued leadership in the Green Movement and subsequent house arrest.

Masoumeh Ebtekar is an Iranian reformist politician and academic, known for her significant roles in the Iranian government. She served as the Vice President of Iran for Women and Family Affairs and was the head of the Department of Environment, becoming the first female cabinet member in Iran since 1979. With a background in medical sciences and immunology, she also holds a position as a full professor at Tarbiat Modares University. Throughout her career, she has been involved in various governmental and academic roles, emphasizing environmental protection and women's rights.

Ardashir II served as a vassal king of Adiabene under his brother, Shapur II, before becoming the Sasanian King of Kings in 379. He fought alongside his brother against the Romans and was appointed as the successor to rule until Shapur III reached adulthood. Ardashir II's reign was marked by efforts to maintain control over Armenia, although largely uneventful. Known for his strong-willed character, he was referred to as "the beneficent" in some sources.

Ali Razmara, also known as Haj Ali Razmara, was a prominent military leader and politician in Iran. He served as the Prime Minister of Iran and was known for his dedication to modernizing the country's armed forces. Razmara implemented various reforms during his tenure to strengthen Iran's military capabilities and improve national security. His assassination outside the Shah Mosque in Tehran marked a tragic end to his professional career, making him the third Iranian Prime Minister to be assassinated.

Abolhassan Banisadr was an Iranian politician, writer, and political dissident. He served as the first president of Iran following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, until his impeachment by parliament in 1981. Prior to his presidency, he held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs. Banisadr co-founded the National Council of Resistance of Iran and later sought political asylum in France after fleeing Iran. He focused on political writings, critiquing the Iranian government, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the handling of the country's 2009 elections.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is an Iranian principlist and nationalist politician who served as the sixth president of Iran from 2005 to 2013. He is currently a member of the Expediency Discernment Council. Ahmadinejad was known for his hardline views and nuclearization of Iran. He was the main political leader of the Alliance of Builders of Islamic Iran, a coalition of conservative political groups. Prior to his presidency, he served as mayor of Tehran from 2003 to 2005 and was involved in various political and ideological organizations.

Maryam Rajavi is an Iranian dissident politician and the leader of the People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK), an organization advocating the overthrow of the Iranian government. She also serves as the president-elect of its National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). With a strong stance against the current Iranian regime, Rajavi is a prominent figure in the opposition movement. Alongside her husband Massoud Rajavi, who co-leads MEK, she continues to be a vocal advocate for political change in Iran.

Hossein Rezazadeh is a renowned Iranian weightlifter and politician. He has achieved significant success in weightlifting, winning multiple Olympic, World Weightlifting, and Asian championships. Rezazadeh has been honored with the prestigious Iran Sportsperson of the Year award multiple times, highlighting his dominance in the sport. Widely regarded as one of the greatest weightlifters in history, he has left a lasting legacy with his remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport.

Sayyid Ahmad Khomeini played a crucial role in Iranian politics as a key figure during the Iranian Revolution and beyond. He served as a trusted aide to his father, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, fulfilling various decision-making roles within the government. Known as the "right-hand" of his father, Ahmad Khomeini effectively bridged the gap between Ruhollah Khomeini and other officials, facilitating communication and decision-making processes. His contributions were significant in shaping the political landscape of Iran during a critical period in its history.

Cyaxares was the third king of the Medes, ascending to the throne in 625 BCE after his father's death in battle. He collaborated with the Babylonians to defeat the Assyrian Empire, consolidating power and uniting various Iranian peoples. Under his rule, Media became a significant regional power in ancient Iran. Cyaxares' strategic alliances and military victories were instrumental in shaping the political landscape of the time, marking him as a skilled and influential leader in the history of the Medes.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is an Iranian conservative politician, former military officer, and current Speaker of the Parliament of Iran. He has held various significant positions throughout his career, including Mayor of Tehran, Chief of police, and commander of the Revolutionary Guards' Air Force. Ghalibaf is a highly educated individual with a Ph.D. in political geography and is a certified pilot. He has also been involved in academic work as a professor at the University of Tehran. Ghalibaf has been a notable candidate in multiple presidential elections in Iran.

Ali Khamenei is an Iranian Twelver Shia marja' and politician who has been serving as the second supreme leader of Iran since 1989. He previously held the position of the third president of Iran from 1981 to 1989. Khamenei was a key figure during the Iran–Iraq War in the 1980s, developing close ties with the Revolutionary Guards. As supreme leader, he holds significant power over Iran's political, military, and judicial branches, as well as the media. Khamenei has been involved in various major protests and has issued important decrees, including a fatwa against weapons of mass destruction.

Mohsen Rezaee Mirgha'ed is an Iranian conservative politician and senior military officer in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He has held various prominent roles such as being a member of the Expediency Discernment Council, secretary of the Supreme Council for Economic Coordination, and secretary of the Iranian government's Economic Committee. He served as commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for nearly two decades. Rezaee has also been an active participant in presidential elections, running as a conservative candidate in 2009, 2013, and most recently in 2021.

Mohammad Reza Rahimi had a distinguished career in Iranian politics, serving as the fifth first vice president from 2009 to 2013. Prior to this role, he held positions such as governor of the Kurdistan province and vice president for parliamentary affairs. Rahimi's reputation took a hit when he was convicted of corruption in 2015, leading to his imprisonment in Evin Prison. Allegedly heading the "Fatemi Circle," Rahimi's professional life has been marred by legal troubles despite his earlier governmental roles.

Rashid al-Din Hamadani was a prominent figure in the Ilkhanid court, renowned for his contributions to Persian historiography. He served as the chief vizier and historian, commissioned by Ghazan to compile the Jāmiʿ al-Tawārīkh, a comprehensive chronicle spanning from the Mongols to his time. Rashid worked closely with Bolad, a Mongol nobleman, and oversaw a team of calligraphers and illustrators at Rab'-e Rashidi in Qazvin. Despite controversy over authorship, Rashid's enduring legacy lies in his documentation of cultural exchanges and the historical transition from the Mongol to subsequent empires.

Mahmud Gawan was a Persian statesman who served as the chief minister and de facto ruler of the Bahmani Sultanate. He was appointed a high-ranking noble by the Sultan, eventually becoming Chief Minister with the title Prince of Merchants. Mahmud led successful campaigns against neighboring empires and oversaw the Sultanate's greatest territorial expansion. Known for his expertise in Islamic theology, Persian language, and sciences, Mahmud also established the renowned Mahmud Gawan Madrasa in Bidar, a center for religious and secular learning modeled after colleges in Persia.

Reza Pahlavi is the founder and leader of the National Council of Iran, an exiled opposition group dedicated to promoting democracy in Iran. He is actively involved in the Iranian democracy movement and is a vocal critic of the country's Islamic Republic government. Pahlavi advocates for human rights, freedom, and democracy in Iran, working to support the aspirations of the Iranian people for a democratic and secular government. He resides in Great Falls, Virginia, where he continues his advocacy efforts on behalf of the Iranian people.

Sayyid Mohammad Mirmohammadi was an influential Iranian conservative and principlist politician with a long and distinguished career. He served as the senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and was a member of the Expediency Discernment Council. Throughout his career, Mirmohammadi held various key positions including being a member of the Iranian parliament, serving on the central council of the Islamic Republic Party, and acting as presidential chief of staff during the terms of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani. Additionally, he was the secretary general of the Islamic Civilization Party.

Pharnabazus II was a Persian soldier and statesman who served as the Satrap of Hellespontine Phrygia. He was a part of the Pharnacid dynasty and had been governing the satrapy since 478 BC. Known for his military prowess and political acumen, Pharnabazus II was a key figure in Persian leadership. He married Apama, daughter of Artaxerxes II, and their son Artabazus followed in his footsteps as a satrap. Pharnabazus II's granddaughter Barsine was rumored to have a connection with Alexander the Great.

Mohammed Sadeq Givi Khalkhali was an Iranian Shia cleric who served as the Chief Justice of the revolutionary courts. Known for his enthusiasm for summary executions, he earned the moniker "hanging judge" in Iran. Khalkhali was described as a small, rotund man with a pointed beard, a kindly smile, and a high-pitched giggle. He presided over numerous high-profile cases during his tenure, playing a key role in the judicial system of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Sadegh Ghotbzadeh was an Iranian politician who served as a close aide of Ayatollah Khomeini during his exile in France. He later became the foreign minister during the Iran hostage crisis following the Iranian Revolution. Ghotbzadeh played a prominent role in diplomatic efforts during this turbulent period. However, his career took a tragic turn when he was accused of plotting the assassination of Ayatollah Khomeini and the overthrow of the Islamic Republic, leading to his execution in 1982.

Sayyed Mohammad Hosseini Beheshti was an influential Iranian jurist, philosopher, cleric, and politician who played a significant role in shaping Iran's post-revolution constitution and administrative structure. He was known for his leadership within the Islamic Republic, serving as the Secretary General of the Islamic Republic Party, head of the Iranian judicial system, Chairman of the Council of Islamic Revolution, and a key figure in the Assembly of Experts. Beheshti was instrumental in training and mentoring prominent politicians in Iran, including former presidents and other high-ranking officials. His professional legacy was tragically cut short when he was assassinated in the Hafte tir bombing in 1981.

Jafar Sharif-Imami was an Iranian politician who served as prime minister twice, in 1960-1961 and 1978. He held various important positions including cabinet minister, president of the Iranian Senate, president of the Pahlavi Foundation, and president of the Iran Chamber of Industries and Mines during the reign of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. His professional career was marked by his contributions to Iranian politics, governance, and industry, as well as his close association with the Shah's regime.

Seyyed Zia al-Din Tabataba'i Yazdi was an Iranian journalist and pro-Constitution politician known for spearheading the 1921 Persian coup d'état alongside Reza Shah. He aimed to reform the Qajar rule during a period of domestic turmoil and foreign intervention. As the 13th Prime Minister of Persia (Iran), he played a significant role in implementing political and social changes in the country, contributing to the modernization and development of Iran during his tenure.

Mehdi Karroubi is an Iranian Shia cleric and reformist politician known for leading the National Trust Party. He served as the speaker of the parliament during two terms and ran as a presidential candidate in the 2005 and 2009 elections. Karroubi is recognized as a moderate figure with a rural support base. He is considered a pragmatic reformist and a prominent leader of the Iranian Green Movement. Additionally, he was a founding member and former secretary-general of the Association of Combatant Clerics party and has been critical of Iran's Guardian Council and Judicial System.

Imad al-Dawla, also known as Ali ibn Buya, was a prominent figure in Persian history, known for founding the Buyid amirate of Fars. He ruled as the amir from 934 to 949, along with his brothers, creating a triumvirate that controlled key cities in the region. Imad al-Dawla's leadership was marked by strategic prowess and political acumen, which allowed him to establish a stable and powerful domain in the midst of regional conflicts and power struggles.

Seyyed Hadi Khosroshahi was an Iranian cleric and diplomat known for his significant contributions in the realm of international relations. He held the prestigious position of Iran's first ambassador to the Vatican, showcasing his diplomatic acumen and commitment to fostering dialogue between Iran and the Catholic Church. Khosroshahi's professional life was marked by his dedication to representing his country on the global stage, building bridges between different cultures and promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between Iran and the Vatican.

Fatemeh Rahbar was an Iranian conservative politician with a background in visual communication and strategic management. She served as a member of the Iranian Parliament for three terms, representing various regions. During her tenure, she held significant roles such as vice president of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO, chair of the Women's Fraction, and chair of the Media and Art Committee. Rahbar was also a member of the Islamic Coalition Party and served as deputy head of the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation.

Mohammad-Javad Bahonar was a prominent Shia Iranian theologian and politician. He briefly held the position of Prime Minister of Iran in August 1981 before his assassination. Throughout his career, Bahonar was known for his dedication to serving his country and advocating for the principles of Shia Islam. His contributions to Iranian politics and theology left a lasting impact, and his tragic death, along with other members of Mohammad-Ali Rajai's government, was a significant event in Iranian history.

Sayyid Mohammad Kazem Shariatmadari was an Iranian Grand Ayatollah who advocated for the traditional Shiite practice of keeping clerics separate from governmental roles. He was known for his critical stance towards Supreme Leader Ruhollah Khomeini and condemned the hostage-taking of diplomats at the US embassy in Tehran. Shariatmadari's professional life was characterized by his commitment to upholding the principles of Shiite Islam and his efforts to maintain the independence of religious authorities from political power.

Mohammad-Reza Rahchamani was an Iranian physician and reformist politician who served as a representative for Sabzevar in the Iranian Parliament from 1984 to 2000. In the early 2000s, he held the position of heading Iran's State Welfare Organization. Throughout his professional life, Rahchamani focused on healthcare and social welfare issues, working to improve the well-being of Iranian citizens through his roles in both the political and public health sectors.

Nasser Shabani was an Iranian general and senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He began his military career during the Iran-Iraq War in 1982 and played a significant role in various operations, including suppressing the Amol uprising and Operation Mersad. Shabani later became president of the University of Imam Hussein and a deputy of the Sar-Allah Headquarters. In 2018, he publicly acknowledged the IRGC's involvement in directing Houthi forces to target Saudi oil tankers in Yemen. He passed away from COVID-19 in 2020.

Massoud Rajavi was an Iranian politician and revolutionary known for leading the People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK) since 1979. He played a significant role in the organization's activities and ideology, advocating for the overthrow of the Iranian government. Rajavi, along with his wife Maryam Rajavi, steered the MEK's operations and promoted its cause. He resided in France and Iraq after leaving Iran in 1981. His disappearance before the 2003 invasion of Iraq left uncertainty about his fate, making Maryam Rajavi the prominent figure of the MEK.

Sayyid Hashem Bathaie Golpayegani was an Iranian Shia Ayatollah and a representative of the Tehran Province in Iran's Assembly of Experts. He studied at the Qom Seminary and was actively involved in politics, running in the 2016 Iranian Assembly of Experts election under the People's Experts and the Friends of Moderation electoral list. Known for his controversial statement linking America to the source of the coronavirus outbreak, Golpayegani later announced his own infection with COVID-19 but claimed to have healed himself using an "Islamic remedy" before ultimately succumbing to the virus in March 2020.

Hossein Sheikholeslam was an Iranian conservative politician and diplomat known for his advisory role to Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. He served as a member of the Seventh Islamic Parliament of Iran and held the position of Iranian ambassador to Syria. Sheikholeslam also acted as Assistant to the parliament Speaker Ali Larijani for International Affairs. Notably, he was involved in the Iran hostage crisis as one of the students/militants who held Americans hostage. Sheikholeslam passed away due to COVID-19 in 2020.

Qazi Muhammad was an Iranian Kurdish religious and political leader known for founding the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan. He played a prominent role in the establishment of the short-lived Republic of Mahabad, which was backed by the Soviet Union. As the head of this republic, he led efforts to promote Kurdish autonomy within Iran. However, his political activities led to his eventual execution by the Iranian government on charges of treason. Despite his controversial end, Qazi Muhammad remains a significant figure in Kurdish political history.