Ali Khamenei
All peopleAli Khamenei, full AI read
Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of Iran (IRN), ranks #152/500 on the Power & Influence Index (56.4). Greatest lever: Entrenchment / tenure (88.0, Leading). Entrenchment 88/100.
Dimension read
| Dimension | Value | Standing | What a high vs low value means, and where Ali Khamenei sits |
|---|---|---|---|
| PII Power & Influence (PII) | 56.4 | Strong · #151/635 | High here, near the apex of civilizational influence. ▲ high: near the apex of civilizational influence · ▼ low: lower relative influence within this elite set |
| Economic power Economic power | 56.0 | Moderate · #360/635 | Mid-pack. High would mean controls vast wealth and companies; low would mean limited economic control. ▲ high: controls vast wealth and companies · ▼ low: limited economic control |
| Political power Political power | 60.9 | Strong · #174/635 | High here, commands states, law or policy. ▲ high: commands states, law or policy · ▼ low: little formal political power |
| AI power AI power | 34.0 | Moderate · #378/635 | Mid-pack. High would mean shapes or controls the trajectory of AI; low would mean limited sway over AI's direction. ▲ high: shapes or controls the trajectory of AI · ▼ low: limited sway over AI's direction |
| Platform reach Platform reach | 58.0 | Strong · #178/635 | High here, commands a vast audience or network. ▲ high: commands a vast audience or network · ▼ low: limited direct reach |
| Institutional control Institutional control | 86.0 | Leading · #44/635 | High here, controls pivotal institutions and capital. ▲ high: controls pivotal institutions and capital · ▼ low: limited institutional control |
| Entrenchment / tenure Entrenchment / tenure | 88.0 | Leading · #14/635 | High here, power is locked in (indefinite or controlling stake). ▲ high: power is locked in (indefinite or controlling stake) · ▼ low: power is contingent, term-limited or contestable |
Strengths
- Entrenchment / tenure (88.0, Leading), power is locked in (indefinite or controlling stake).
- Institutional control (86.0, Leading), controls pivotal institutions and capital.
- Political power (60.9, Strong), commands states, law or policy.
Risk factors
- Highly entrenched (tenure 88): power is locked in and hard to contest or remove.
AI worldview
Ideas & positions
Ali Khamenei has not made extensive public statements specifically about AI, but his general technological and economic policies suggest a cautious approach to new technologies. He emphasizes the importance of indigenous technology development and reducing dependence on foreign entities. In 2019, he called for increased investment in technology and innovation to support Iran's economic resilience. His stance on AI is likely to be framed within the broader context of national security and economic self-sufficiency. There is no specific public position on existential risk, open vs closed models, or detailed regulation of AI.
What shapes the view
Khamenei's views on AI are shaped by Iran's geopolitical landscape, the need for technological independence from Western powers, and the strategic importance of maintaining a robust domestic tech sector. His emphasis on self-reliance and resistance against foreign influence aligns with his broader political ideology. The role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in driving technological advancements also plays a significant role in shaping his perspective on AI and its applications.
The AI-powered future they see
Khamenei publicly predicts that AI will play a crucial role in Iran's technological and economic development, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, defense, and industrial automation. He promotes the idea that AI can enhance Iran's strategic capabilities and contribute to its economic growth. However, he also warns about the potential for foreign powers to use AI to undermine Iran's sovereignty and security.