Iran is dictatorship masquerading as a theocratic republic. Yes, they have an elected president and legislature. But the Ayatollah or “Supreme Leader” is the true source of power in the country.So how does Iran pick a new Ayatollah?When the Supreme Leader dies, a council of 88 clerics forms. These clerics are known as the “Assembly of Experts.” They must pick a successor who is a male Islamic cleric with recognized religious, legal, and political competence, as well as moral authority. This candidate must win 2/3rds of the vote.Likely picks for the new Ayatollah are: The Head of the Judiciary — Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i Ayatollah Khamenei’s Chief of Staff — Ali Asghar Hejazi And a moderate cleric from the reformists political faction who is the grandson of Ayatollah Khomeini — Hassan KhomeiniThe problem is that these 88 clerics must meet in person, and it can be assumed that the US is watching any moment of these individuals. Possible picks are also being watched. So Iran may remain leaderless for the time being, which could buy time for the people, and Iran’s army to overthrow the government.