By Philomina Brando
Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new Supreme Leader following the killing of his father, Ali Khamenei, in a joint strike reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel on February 28.
According to Iranian state media, the attack that killed the elder Khamenei also claimed the lives of several members of his family, including his daughter, a grandchild, his daughter-in-law and son-in-law. Days later, his wife and Mojtaba’s mother reportedly died from injuries sustained during the strike.
The new leader was selected by Iran’s powerful clerical body, the Assembly of Experts, which is constitutionally mandated to appoint the country’s Supreme Leader.
Born in 1969, Mojtaba Khamenei received religious training similar to that of his brothers. However, he never attained the rank of Mujtahid — a high level of Islamic jurisprudence that many loyalists of the Islamic Republic consider a key qualification for the position.
For years, Mojtaba maintained a low public profile but was widely believed to wield considerable influence behind the scenes within his father’s political structure. Analysts say he developed close ties with the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as well as with economic networks that support the ruling establishment.
Despite holding no major formal political office, observers of Iranian politics have long pointed to his growing influence within the system, particularly through his work in his father’s office.
In recent years, speculation about his succession intensified. In 2021, images circulated on social media showing supporters distributing posters across Tehran promoting Mojtaba as the next leader during rallies marking Jerusalem Day.
Political analysts say his appointment signals continuity in the Islamic Republic’s hardline leadership, with expectations that the country’s ruling establishment — particularly factions aligned with the Revolutionary Guard — will maintain the policies and legacy of the late Ali Khamenei.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the region following the strike that killed the long-time Iranian leader and several members of his family.