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Mojtaba Khamenei becomes Iran’s new Supreme Leader
Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ali Khamenei, is set to become the Supreme Leader of Iran following his father’s death on February 28, reportedly from an Israeli military strike. The decision was made by the Assembly of Experts, the constitutional body responsible for selecting the Supreme Leader.
However, according to journalists, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) exerted pressure on the assembly to quickly confirm a successor to prevent political instability. There has been no official confirmation from Iranian state sources yet.
Background
Name: Mojtaba Khamenei
Family: Son of Ali Khamenei
Education: Attended Alavi School in Tehran (traditionally for children of high-ranking officials). Began formal religious studies at the age of 30 in the Qom seminary, Iran’s most prominent Shiite religious institution.
Marriage: Married the daughter of Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel before becoming a cleric.
Political influence
Active behind the scenes in Iranian politics since the mid-2000s.
Accused in 2004 of influencing presidential elections in favor of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
Known as a leading figure in Iran’s hardline conservative faction.
Considered a potential successor to his father for many years.
Other roles and assets
Manages a large investment empire, including Swiss bank accounts and elite British properties valued over $100 million.
Sanctioned by the United States in 2019.
Significance
Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment represents a potential dynastic transfer of power in Iran, raising questions about the future of the republic’s political system.
As Supreme Leader, he will wield ultimate authority over government, military, and foreign policy.
