Mojtaba Khamenei Named Iran’s New Supreme Leader

On 9 March, Iran appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader, succeeding his father Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during the initial strikes launched against Iran.

The decision was taken by the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member clerical body constitutionally responsible for selecting the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.

Background and Rise

Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric born in 1969 in Mashhad, the holy Shi’ite city of Iran, grew up during the revolutionary period when his father was involved in the opposition against the Shah. As a young man, he also served in the Iran–Iraq War.

Over the years, Mojtaba emerged as a powerful behind-the-scenes figure within Iran’s political establishment. He gained influence through his close connections with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and through his involvement in networks linked to the extensive business empire associated with the security establishment.

Political Influence

Often described as his father’s “gatekeeper,” Mojtaba Khamenei built significant leverage within Iran’s political and security apparatus. He has been known to oppose reformist factions advocating greater engagement with the West, particularly regarding negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme.

Powers of the Supreme Leader

In the political system of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Supreme Leader holds the highest authority in the state, with the final say on foreign policy, defence matters, and the nuclear programme, as well as broad oversight of key institutions.

Controversy

Mojtaba’s rise has been controversial among critics within Iran, who oppose any perception of dynastic succession in a country whose political system emerged from the Iranian Revolution, which overthrew the U.S.-backed monarchy.