Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country's new supreme leader, state media reported. The 57-year-old has long operated behind the scenes, cultivating influence within the security establishment, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Mojtaba Khamenei was selected by Iran's Assembly of Experts. His father was killed on February 28 in a strike that also claimed the lives of approximately 40 other high-ranking Iranian officials. Mojtaba Khamenei's rise signals a choice for stability by Iran's ruling elite amidst significant pressure. His close ties to the IRGC suggest these institutions will maintain strong influence. This transition marks an unprecedented move, keeping power within the same family.