Iran’s Assembly of Experts has been directed to make an urgent and confidential decision regarding the succession.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, 85-year-old Ali Khamenei, is reportedly suffering from a severe illness and is expected to step down soon, potentially naming his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as his successor, according to Iran International.
On September 26, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reportedly convened 60 members of Iran’s Assembly of Experts, instructing them to make an urgent and confidential decision regarding his succession.
In a unanimous vote, the assembly selected Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, as his successor. However, reports indicate that members expressed opposition to both the decision and the process but faced pressure from Khamenei and his representatives. Some accounts, as reported by News18, even allege that direct threats were used to influence their decision.
Here’s what we know about Mojtaba Khamenei, the potential successor to Iran’s highest position:
Personal Life
Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was born in Mashhad in 1969. He pursued theological studies under his father and other prominent teachers, eventually becoming a cleric. He currently teaches theology at the Qom seminary.
He is married to Zahra Haddad-Adel, and the couple has three children.
Role in the 2009 Elections
Mojtaba Khamenei supported Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in Iran’s 2005 and 2009 elections and was allegedly instrumental in Ahmadinejad’s 2009 victory.
Following Ahmadinejad’s win, widespread protests erupted in June 2009. Mojtaba was reportedly at the forefront of efforts to suppress the anti-government demonstrations.
However, his relationship with Ahmadinejad later soured when the former president accused Mojtaba of embezzling funds from the state treasury.
The Next Supreme Leader
While speculations about Mojtaba Khamenei’s potential succession as Iran’s next Supreme Leader persist, he may encounter some opposition from the Assembly of Experts, although the body is largely ceremonial.
Mojtaba is also believed to have access to significant financial resources. However, The Guardian suggests that his political influence may not be strong enough to guarantee him the position of Supreme Leader.