The recently appointed Supreme Leader of Iran, Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, who is the second son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly sustained injuries. Mojtaba was officially named his father’s successor on Sunday by the regime’s 88-member assembly.
According to a report on Iranian state TV, Mojtaba was referred to as wounded in the war, described as a “janbaz” or a warrior injured by the enemy during the “Ramadan war”. While specific details about his injuries remain undisclosed, it is known that his wife and father were killed in Israeli attacks on Tehran during the conflict’s onset.
The news report also highlighted Mojtaba’s proficiency in English and noted his educational background in psychology, along with expertise in politics, modern technologies, military sciences, and security affairs.
Following the passing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israel has declared its intention to “eliminate” his successor and any subsequent appointees. The IDF, in a Farsi post, warned that Israel will relentlessly pursue any individuals seeking to take on leadership roles within Iran.
Images from Iranian state TV depicted enthusiastic crowds celebrating in the streets of Tehran after Mojtaba was announced as the new Supreme Leader. The revelers were seen chanting “Allahu Akbar, Khamenei Rahbar,” which translates to “God is great, Khamenei is the leader”.
US President Donald Trump criticized Mojtaba Khamenei, labeling him a “lightweight” and asserting the need for his personal involvement in selecting Iran’s next leader. Trump emphasized the necessity for approval from the US, stating that without it, the new leader would not last long.
Despite not being a prominent cleric or having previous official positions, Mojtaba Khamenei is reported to have garnered support from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and was chosen by Iran’s Assembly of Experts, reportedly under pressure from the IRGC.
