Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? Son of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Poised to Succeed

Iran is said to be prepared for a succession process as Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is expected to be the new Supreme Leader of the country. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is reportedly 85 years old now and has been battling grave health issues.

Mojtaba Khamenei: Successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

He is believed to have handed over the legatees, with him alive. According to reports, Khamenei is in a hurry to have his son leading the government during his lifetime because succession would be easier.

Secret Succession Assemblage

According to Iran International, as quoted from the news outlet Ynetnews, the secret gathering of the Iranian Assembly of Experts occurred on September 26. This assembly of 60 members is reported to have convened and elected its next Supreme Leader.

It is claimed that Mojtaba was elected under duress by Ayatollah Khamenei and his loyalists after warning members of dire consequences if they opposed his choice or revealed details of the meeting. His induction has been strictly criticized because members have been coerced into supporting him in an undemocratic process. It is reported that to avoid public outcry, the details of the meeting were kept behind closed doors for nearly a month. However, numerous people have started questioning Mojtaba's qualification to take the leadership, which is said to lack considerable administrative experience. The critics claim that being attached to his father for nearly two years, the son is not qualified to hold such an important position.

About Mojtaba

Born in 1969 in Mashhad, Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei is the second son of Ayatollah Khamenei and graduated in theology. He is seen as a part of the political and military background of Iran. He was a participant in the Iran-Iraq War in 1987-88 and also believed to have taken responsibility in managing the Basij militia, a paramilitary force. He played his pivotal role in crushing opposition to the disputed presidential elections in 2009.

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While Mojtaba’s credentials include religious studies and militia leadership, critics point to his limited exposure to official administrative roles. As the world watches this potential leadership transition, concerns remain about its implications for Iran’s political landscape and regional stability.