[citation needed] Throughout its history, the Parliament's character has evolved from being a "debating chamber for notables" to a "club for the shah's placemen" during the Pahlavi era.

The Islamic Consultative Assembly holds the authority to legislate laws on all matters within the boundaries defined by the Constitution.

[5] Nevertheless, it is restricted from enacting laws that contradict the fundamental principles of the official religion of the nation (Islam) or the Constitution itself.

[9] Sanctioning and obtaining national or international loans or grants by the government requires ratification from the Islamic Consultative Assembly.

[10] The President must secure a vote of confidence from the Assembly, through a Council of Ministers approval, upon forming the government and prior to conducting any other business.

Within a maximum of ten days from its receipt, the Guardian Council must review the legislation to ensure its compatibility with Islamic criteria and the Constitution.

Candidates need to be 30 at least and 75 years maximum, have a master's degree or equal Level 3 Islamic seminary, and be Iranian born.

[citation needed] There are five seats reserved for religious minorities (1.7% of the total members), with two for the Armenians and one each for the Assyrians, Jews and Zoroastrians.

[citation needed] All candidates running for election, and proposed legislation from the assembly must be approved by the Guardian Council.

Prior to the 1 March legislative election, on February 14, 2024, the Assembly servers were hacked, revealing monthly payments of 270 million tomans to members.