Iran's next Supreme Leader chosen, name still under wraps
What's the story
Iran has announced that the clerical body responsible for choosing the successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made a decision. While the name of the successor remains undisclosed, reports indicate that Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, the late leader's son, is likely to be chosen. The announcement comes amid tensions with Israel, whose military has warned it would pursue any successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and the United States.
Selection confirmation
Most suitable candidate determined: Heidari
Ayatollah Mohsen Heidari Alekasir, a member of the Assembly of Experts, confirmed in a video released by Nournews that a candidate has been selected based on Khamenei's advice that the leader should be hated by the enemy. Heidari said, "The most suitable candidate, approved by the majority of the Assembly of Experts, has been determined." This statement comes after reports suggested Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei was elected amid pressure from Iran's Revolutionary Guards.
Survival and warning
Mojtaba reportedly survived US and Israeli airstrikes
Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly survived US and Israeli airstrikes on February 28 that killed his father. The Israeli military has warned it would pursue every successor of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, including those involved in appointing a new leader. This comes as Iran's Mehr news agency quoted Assembly member Ayatollah Mohammad-Mahdi Mirbagheri saying "some obstacles" remain in the selection process.
Historical context
Assembly of Experts responsible for selecting Iran's next Supreme Leader
The Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body, is responsible for selecting Iran's next Supreme Leader. Over the past five decades, Iran has had two Supreme Leaders: Ruhollah Khomeini and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ruled for 37 years before being killed in a US-Israeli strike on February 28.