Explanation

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ali Khamenei, was selected as Iran’s third Supreme Leader following his father’s death. Following the death of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Assembly of Experts named his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader on March 8, 2026. The 56-year-old mid-ranking cleric was appointed amid a major crisis following his father’s assassination in a U.S.-Israeli strike. He is supported by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Appointment: The 88-member Assembly of Experts quickly appointed Mojtaba to secure continuity. Background: Previously a shadowy figure, Mojtaba is seen as a hardliner with strong ties to the security apparatus. Context: The appointment occurred during intense conflict, with the IRGC pledging swift allegiance to the new leader. Opposition: While some groups cheered, others criticized the apparent hereditary transition.