Mojtaba Khamenei named Iran's new Supreme Leader
Iran's state media report Mojtaba Khamenei, son of late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been appointed to the position following his father's death from US/Israeli missile strikes. The appointment comes despite US President Trump's stated requirement for involvement in the selection process. Mojtaba Khamenei, a mid-50s cleric trained in Qom seminaries, has long wielded behind-the-scenes influence through religious institutions and the IRGC. Under Iran's constitution, the Assembly of Experts selects the Supreme Leader from senior Islamic scholars when the office becomes vacant. The position holds ultimate authority over Iran's political system, armed forces, judiciary and key state institutions. While official confirmation from the assembly is limited, state outlets describe Mojtaba Khamenei as the consensus choice among influential clerics and political figures. His leadership will shape Iran's future direction amid ongoing geopolitical tensions following the conflict that killed his father.