The president is not (necessary) a religious leader, nor is the chief of army or of the IRGC. Different religious leaders have a lot of power but many tend to o

The president is not (necessary) a religious leader, nor is the chief of army or of the IRGC. Different religious leaders have a lot of power but many tend to overestimate their power. For sure they enforces religious laws more than most of other countries, but again there is often a gap between what people picture and and the reality. My well educated brother was for example surprise that many girl wear scarf in a way to show half of their hairs, or that Iran pays for the transition of some transgender person. Definitely more liberal than Saudi Arabia... Most countries that can find ways to boost their international influence. Suporting militia or countries is one way (like USA supporting kurdish militia in Iran°, but religion is only part of the equation. For example Iran supports Sunni groups (Hamas being the most famous)or country (use to get ties with Sudan). Religion helps. But money and military support is the cornerstone here. And many groups needs Iran, but don't like it, its control, have different agenda. Repeatedly swears it wants to destroy Israel (good communication) but never do anything really in this direction. They have plenty of opportunity but don't act. Cause that is definitely not very important for them, and not realistic. A slogan is a slogan... Conclusion: Iran is a dictatorship, a theocracy, and is in a fight with USA. Most of their leader are convinced Shia Muslim, but the way they acts shows that they are more guided by Iranian interest and regime / self interest preservation than crazy cleric fighting for primary for Shia everywhere in the world... And while it is a regime I hate, it is clear to me there is a big gap between the perception of Iran and the reality