Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly chosen his successor in a highly secretive manner. His youngest son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has allegedly been placed in line to assume the role of Supreme Leader. The question arises: Why has this decision been made now?
Reports suggest that Khamenei’s health is deteriorating, with some claiming that he is in a coma. As a result, Khamenei has handed over the responsibility of leading Iran to his son Mojtaba, who may take on the role until his father’s condition improves or his death. However, there has been no official confirmation of Mojtaba’s appointment as Supreme Leader, and the matter remains confidential.
According to sources, Iran’s Assembly of Experts, a group responsible for selecting the Supreme Leader, allegedly elected Mojtaba as Khamenei’s successor. Reports claim that Khamenei personally reached out to 60 members of the assembly to discuss the decision, and the body subsequently reached a unanimous agreement to nominate Mojtaba.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, aged 85, is said to be suffering from a serious illness. Therefore, preparations have been underway for some time to elevate his son Mojtaba to the position of Supreme Leader. Mojtaba, Khamenei’s second son, has strong ties to Iran’s intelligence and government agencies. His influence grew significantly after Ibrahim Raisi became the president of Iran.
In Iran, the Assembly of Experts, composed of 86 clerics, is responsible for electing the Supreme Leader. To become Supreme Leader, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority from the Assembly. However, the Guardian Council plays a critical role in the selection process. The Assembly of Experts holds elections every 8 years.