Ali Khamenei, who has led Iran since the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, has never traveled abroad or given media interviews, leading critics to claim he avoids accountability. His leadership has been marked by hostility towards the US, significant political influence, and a concentration of power that has marginalized elected officials. Khamenei's tenure has seen a decline in political participation and increased social discontent, particularly among the youth, due to his hardline policies and resistance to reform. His foreign policy has resulted in severe sanctions impacting the economy.