Iran’s Assembly of Experts Meets to Choose Successor
US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran’s next supreme leader will struggle to remain in power without approval from the United States. His remarks came as Iranian authorities prepared to announce the successor to the late Ali Khamenei.
Khamenei was killed nine days earlier during joint military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel. The attacks targeted his compound and significantly escalated tensions across the Middle East.
Following the incident, senior Iranian clerics gathered to decide the country’s next supreme leader. The meeting was held by the Assembly of Experts.
Members of the assembly met privately to discuss the leadership transition. Officials confirmed that a successor had been selected but did not immediately reveal the name.
Iranian authorities said the official announcement would be made soon. The decision is expected to shape Iran’s political and religious leadership during a period of regional conflict.
Speculation Grows Over Mojtaba Khamenei as Possible Successor
Several political observers believe that Mojtaba Khamenei could become the next supreme leader. Mojtaba is the 56-year-old son of the late leader and has long been considered an influential figure in Iran’s political system.
Although Iranian officials have not confirmed his selection, speculation continues to grow. Some clerics reportedly support his appointment because of his close connections with the country’s religious establishment.
However, the possibility of Mojtaba Khamenei becoming the new leader has also drawn criticism from international figures.
President Donald Trump has previously dismissed Mojtaba as an unacceptable choice for the position. He described the younger Khamenei as politically weak and lacking authority.
Analysts say the succession process is extremely sensitive. The position of supreme leader holds the highest political and religious authority in Iran.
The leader controls key institutions, including the military, judiciary and major political decisions.
Trump’s Remarks Add to Rising Regional Tensions
During an interview with ABC News, Trump said Iran’s next leader would need approval from Washington to remain in power.
“He’s going to have to get approval from us,” Trump said while referring to Iran’s next supreme leader.
The US president added that any leader who fails to secure American approval would not last long.
Trump’s statement has added another layer of tension to an already volatile regional situation. Relations between the United States and Iran have remained strained for years.
The latest conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States has further intensified political divisions in the Middle East.
Experts say leadership changes in Iran could have major consequences for regional stability. The new supreme leader will likely determine the country’s future foreign policy and its approach toward Western powers.
Iranian officials have not responded directly to Trump’s latest comments. However, the upcoming announcement of the new supreme leader is expected to draw global attention.
Observers believe the decision could shape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East for years to come.
