President Trump has expressed his desire to play a personal role in the selection process for Iran’s next leader and criticized the expected successor. Trump stated his disapproval of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei, being considered for the position. He emphasized the need for his involvement in the appointment, drawing parallels to his role in the selection of Delcy Rodriguez in Venezuela.

The President’s comments come as Iranian officials indicated they were nearing the announcement of Khamenei’s replacement, with Mojtaba Khamenei being a leading candidate. Trump made it clear that he would not support a new leader who would perpetuate Khamenei’s policies, warning that such a scenario could lead to conflict with the U.S. in the future.

“Khamenei’s son is not acceptable to me. We seek a leader who will bring stability and peace to Iran,” Trump stated in an interview with Axios.

This development underscores the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with Trump asserting his stance on the leadership transition in the Middle Eastern nation.