[Iran Watch #10] Hassan Khomeini: Can the Grandson of Iran’s Founder Lead Reform?

- June 27, 2025

Hassan Khomeini, the reformist grandson of Ayatollah Khomeini, emerges as a potential voice for change in Iran. Can he lead a new chapter in Iranian politics amid rising tensions and hope for reform?

A split portrait illustration of Hassan Khomeini and Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, symbolizing generational contrast and Iran's political future

1. Introduction

In a nation defined by its revolutionary past and authoritarian present, the appearance of a reformist bearing the Khomeini name is more than symbolic. Hassan Khomeini, grandson of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founding father of the Islamic Republic, is increasingly viewed as a potential figure of change. But can he genuinely lead Iran into a more open political future?

2. Who Is Hassan Khomeini?

Born in 1972, Sayyid Hassan Khomeini is a Shiite cleric and caretaker of the Mausoleum of his grandfather. Unlike many of Iran’s current conservative clergy, Hassan has aligned himself with reformist factions. He holds no official political position but commands significant respect in religious and intellectual circles, both due to his lineage and progressive voice.

3. Political Ambitions and Reformist Identity

Hassan Khomeini has on several occasions expressed support for democratic reforms, civil society, and dialogue with the West. He was widely expected to run for president in 2021 but was barred from doing so by the Guardian Council, a move many viewed as politically motivated. His support for former President Mohammad Khatami and the Green Movement signals a clear break from hardliner orthodoxy.

4. Obstacles and Criticisms

Despite his name, Hassan Khomeini faces resistance from Iran’s conservative establishment. Critics argue he lacks political experience and relies too heavily on his family name. Others fear he could be a 'controlled opposition' meant to placate reformist sentiments without real power to implement change.

5. Symbolism vs. Real Power

His symbolic role is both a strength and a weakness. While many Iranians see him as a bridge between tradition and progress, actual political leverage remains out of reach without structural changes to Iran’s theocratic system. The fact that he was disqualified from even running for office underscores the limits of symbolism in Iranian politics.

Illustration of Hassan Khomeini in traditional clerical clothing, set against the Iranian flag, representing a modern face of Iran’s revolutionary lineage

6. Conclusion

Hassan Khomeini’s emergence on the political scene raises profound questions about the future of Iran. Can a man with revolutionary bloodline turn reformer? Can the grandson of the Republic’s founder become its soft-spoken critic? While the answers remain uncertain, one thing is clear: the reformist hope still burns, and for many, Hassan Khomeini is its unexpected flame.

FAQ

Q1. Is Hassan Khomeini officially involved in Iranian politics?

No, he holds no governmental office but is an influential cleric with reformist leanings.

Q2. Why was he barred from running for president in 2021?

The Guardian Council disqualified him, likely due to his reformist views and perceived threat to the conservative order.

Q3. Does he support the current Supreme Leader?

He has maintained a respectful tone but is often viewed as being ideologically distant from Ayatollah Khamenei’s hardline stance.

Q4. What is his stance on Iran-West relations?

He has promoted dialogue and diplomacy, in contrast to many hardliners.

Q5. Could he run for office again in the future?

It’s possible, but only if the political climate shifts or the Guardian Council permits it.

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