Iran’s clerical Assembly of Experts has reportedly chosen Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s next Supreme Leader, according to sources cited by Iran International.
The reported decision comes amid claims of significant pressure from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), suggesting a potentially greater role for the powerful military body in shaping Iran’s future leadership. Iranian state media has not officially confirmed the appointment.
Iran International, citing informed sources, reported that the Assembly of Experts selected Mojtaba, 56, to succeed his father. He is the second-eldest son of Ali Khamenei and has long been viewed by observers as a possible successor.
The outlet further alleged that the IRGC strongly pressured members of the clerical body to back Mojtaba’s selection.
In Iran’s political system, the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority, standing at the apex of the country’s Shiite theocratic structure. The role includes serving as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and overseeing the influential Revolutionary Guard, which the United States designated a terrorist organization in 2019.
Under Ali Khamenei’s leadership, the IRGC significantly expanded its reach across Iran’s political, military, and economic spheres.
According to the report, Mojtaba Khamenei maintains close ties with the Revolutionary Guard and is believed to have exercised substantial influence behind the scenes.
He reportedly played a key role in managing the Office of the Supreme Leader and has long been considered an influential figure within Iran’s power structure.
