Tehran: Iran’s Assembly of Experts has reportedly chosen Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to succeed him as the country’s leader. This decision, made during a secret meeting on September 26, was first disclosed by Israeli media outlet Ynet News, citing Iran International.
Mojtaba Khamenei has steadily increased his influence within the Iranian regime over the past two years. Though he maintains a low public profile, he is well-known for his role in suppressing the 2009 post-election protests. In 2021, he was granted the title of Ayatollah, which allowed him to meet the constitutional qualifications for becoming Supreme Leader.
The decision to name him as the successor was reportedly shrouded in secrecy, with the Assembly of Experts taking measures to avoid public opposition. Iran International reported that members of the assembly were warned of severe consequences should any details of the meeting be leaked, as officials were concerned about widespread public protests.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has led Iran since 1989 following the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, has been a dominant figure in the country’s politics and governance for over three decades.
