Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Names Mojtaba Khamenei As His Successor Amid Deteriorating Health

Reports from Iran indicate that Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been chosen as his successor. The 85-year-old leader is reportedly in poor health and might step down, allowing Mojtaba to take over while he is still alive. This information comes from ynetnews, referencing Iran International, a media outlet linked to Iranian regime opponents.

Ali Khamenei has been Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, succeeding Ruhollah Khomeini. His tenure of 35 years makes him the longest-serving head of state in the Middle East. He survived an assassination attempt in June 1981 after the Iranian revolution, which left his right arm paralyzed.

Secrecy Surrounding Succession

The succession process was conducted with extreme secrecy due to concerns about potential public unrest. On September 26, sixty members of Iran's Assembly of Experts gathered at Khamenei's request to make a swift decision on his successor. They were instructed to maintain strict confidentiality regarding the meeting and its outcomes.

Despite their reservations about both the decision and the procedure, assembly members unanimously selected Mojtaba as the next leader. Reports from News 18 suggest that they were pressured by Khamenei and his representatives, with threats allegedly being used to ensure compliance.

Potential Retaliation and Threats

The situation is unfolding amid tensions between Iran and Israel. Following Israeli airstrikes on October 27, it was reported that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was gravely ill and that succession discussions had already started. There are speculations that Israel might target Iran's Supreme Leader next.

Khamenei holds significant power as Iran's Supreme Leader. He is not only the head of state but also commands the armed forces and has ultimate authority over government policies. In 2003, he issued a fatwa prohibiting weapons of mass destruction in relation to Iran's nuclear program.

The possibility of retaliatory strikes against Israel is reportedly being considered by Iran. Meanwhile, Mojtaba Khamenei, aged 55, is seen as a probable successor amidst these developments.

The assembly members were warned about severe consequences if any details of their meeting were leaked. This highlights the level of secrecy maintained during this critical transition phase in Iran's leadership.