Deutsche Welle reported that the political life, decisions, and actions of Ayatollah Khamenei have significantly impacted the fate of millions of Iranians over the decades. As he marks his 36th year in leadership, it is likely that only death or the regime's downfall will separate him from his position. A notable feature of Khamenei's leadership has been the extensive influence and prominent role of the Revolutionary Guard in both the economy and politics, which began after the Iran-Iraq War and intensified under former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Khamenei's tacit approval has allowed the Guard to increasingly depend on suppression, especially as the regime's legitimacy wanes.

Several months ago, Khamenei made a rare public appearance after weeks of speculation, looking frail during a mourning ceremony. He requested the pro-government reciter Mahmoud Karimi to sing the anthem "Ey Iran." Many critics believe this is another instance of the regime capitalizing on Iranian nationalism, despite Khamenei's previous New Year message showing no acknowledgment of Iran’s culture or history.

His frail appearance has been interpreted as a reflection of the bloodshed, executions, and oppression faced by Iranians during his reign. The last image of him may symbolize a remarkable political transformation—perhaps depicting him in court after the collapse of the Islamic Republic, or even as a lifeless figure—a testament to the rise and fall of a dictator.