Mojtaba Khamenei, Son of Slain Supreme Leader, Reportedly Elected Iran’s New Leader
The son of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei, has reportedly been elected as the country’s new leader by Iran’s Assembly of Experts. The appointment comes after days of speculation over who would succeed his father, who was killed in US‑Israeli strikes on Saturday.
The 56-year-old, Khamenei’s eldest son, was chosen by the Assembly of Experts, according to Iran International on Tuesday. Sources cited in the report said his election occurred under pressure from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Controversial Succession
Mojtaba’s selection raises questions because the Islamic Republic has historically criticised hereditary succession and promoted itself as a merit-based system. Reports indicate that Ayatollah Khamenei did not include Mojtaba on a list of potential successors prepared last year. Within Iran’s Shia clerical establishment, father-to-son succession is generally not viewed positively.
Why the IRGC Chose Mojtaba
Two main factors reportedly influenced the IRGC’s decision: control and regime legitimacy. Ensuring a secure chain of command, avoiding power struggles, and maintaining stability within security forces were key considerations.
Mojtaba’s direct relationship with his father provides continuity and preserves legitimacy in the eyes of the regime’s core supporters, including hardliner politicians, security agencies, and loyal networks. Additionally, he has long-standing ties with the IRGC, serving as a crucial link between the Supreme Leader and the military’s leadership.
Background on Mojtaba Khamenei
Mojtaba is not a high-ranking cleric, has never held an official government position, but is believed to wield significant behind-the-scenes influence. He has close connections to Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and served in the Iranian armed forces during the Iran-Iraq War.
Mojtaba was among the Khamenei family members who survived past attacks, while other relatives—including the late Supreme Leader’s wife, daughter, grandchild, daughter-in-law, and son-in-law—were killed.
In 2019, the US Treasury Department sanctioned Mojtaba, noting that he acted on behalf of his father in “an official capacity despite never being elected or appointed to a government position,” other than his work in the Supreme Leader’s office.
Born in 1969 in Mashhad, Mojtaba grew up during the period when his father led opposition against the Shah, gaining early exposure to political and military networks that shaped his later influence. (Agency)
