Iran has reportedly selected Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader, according to Iran International. The son of the late Ali Khamenei was chosen by the regime's Assembly of Experts under pressure from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. This transition follows the death of Ali Khamenei during recent American and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.

The selection marks a significant shift in Iranian leadership after nearly four decades under Ali Khamenei's rule. Mojtaba Khamenei, who has never held elected office, wields considerable influence through his connections with the IRGC and its paramilitary forces. Analysts note this hereditary succession contradicts the Islamic Republic's founding principles, which explicitly rejected monarchy as 'un-Islamic' during the 1979 revolution.

Critics question the legitimacy of the selection, with some suggesting it may be propaganda from a regime facing severe challenges. The appointment has drawn mixed reactions online, ranging from skepticism about its authenticity to calls for military action. Karim Sadjadpour of the Carnegie Endowment has warned that Mojtaba's lack of public profile and behind-the-scenes role with the Revolutionary Guards represents continuity rather than change for Iran's hardline governance.