Iran's New Supreme Leader: Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei
The Assembly of Experts in Iran has chosen Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader, following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a joint U.S.-Israeli strike.
Key Details
- Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei becomes the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
- The appointment was made by the 88-member clerical body, the Assembly of Experts, with a decisive vote.
- He succeeds Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- The Supreme Leader holds the highest authority, overseeing the state and armed forces.
International Reactions
- U.S. President Donald Trump expressed a desire to influence the selection of Iran's new leader, labeling Mojtaba Khamenei as a “lightweight.”
- Iranian foreign and other state branches have welcomed the decision, emphasizing national sovereignty and unity.
- Russia's President Vladimir Putin and China's Foreign Ministry have expressed support for the new leader and emphasized non-interference in Iran's internal affairs.
Background of Mojtaba Khamenei
- Born in 1969 in Mashhad, he participated in the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.
- Pursued advanced seminary studies in Qom after the war.
- Has strong ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the clerical establishment.
- Close connections with the Axis of Resistance and Hezbollah's late leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.
