By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Israel Warns Against Iran’s Successor
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, threatened on Wednesday to assassinate whoever Iran chooses to succeed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. He said any new leader who continues Iran’s threats against Israel, the United States, and the region, or suppresses its people, would be a “certain target for assassination,” regardless of location. This warning comes days after Khamenei, aged 86, was killed in a joint US-Israeli airstrike.
US Comments on Iran’s Leadership
US President Donald Trump publicly commented on Tuesday about Iran’s succession. He suggested that the “worst-case scenario” would be a new leader hostile to US priorities.
Iran’s Political System Ready for Transition
Experts say Iran’s political structure is prepared for this scenario. The Assembly of Experts, elected by the public every eight years, will select the next supreme leader. Candidates must first be vetted by the Guardian Council, ensuring they meet requirements of Shia jurisprudence, political judgment, courage, and administrative capability.
Mojtaba Khamenei Among Contenders
Khamenei’s second son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is reportedly a leading candidate. Reuters sources claim he has survived previous US-Israeli attacks, positioning him as a strong contender in the succession race.
Funeral Ceremonies Under Threat
Iran initially scheduled Khamenei’s farewell ceremony at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall to last three days. The event has been postponed due to logistical issues and security concerns. Hojjatoleslam Mahmoudi, head of Iran’s Islamic Propagation Council, said the public could attend and show a strong presence.
Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami, a senior cleric and member of the Guardian Council, confirmed that Iran is close to selecting a new leader, while noting the country remains in a “war situation.”
Background: Khamenei’s Legacy
Ali Khamenei had ruled Iran since 1989, succeeding the founder Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. He held ultimate authority over government, military, and judiciary, and also acted as spiritual leader. Funeral arrangements are ongoing and expected to draw massive crowds, raising fears of attacks targeting mass gatherings, similar to the 10 million attendees at Khomeini’s funeral in 1989.
