Recent reports indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, may be in a coma, leading to speculation about his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, being positioned as the potential successor. According to an Israeli media outlet, Mojtaba was allegedly selected during a secretive meeting of the Assembly of Experts on September 26, which was called by the Supreme Leader. The assembly faced pressure to reach a unanimous decision, reportedly under threats from Khamenei and his representatives.
Mojtaba Khamenei, who was born in 1969 in Mashhad, has been gaining considerable influence within the Iranian regime over the past two years, despite maintaining a low public profile. He has a history tied to the suppression of the 2009 protests following Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s contentious election victory, in which he is believed to have played a significant role. Although he supported Ahmadinejad in the past, their relationship soured after allegations of embezzlement surfaced against him.
With a background in theology, Mojtaba has been trained under prominent clerical figures and currently teaches at the Qom seminary. He is married with three children. There are ongoing rumors about his ascension to the position of Supreme Leader, although he might encounter obstacles from the Assembly of Experts, which mainly holds a ceremonial role.
This situation reflects a crucial juncture in Iran’s political landscape. Should Mojtaba Khamenei rise to power, it could signify a continuation of his father’s policies or a shift, depending on the pressures and circumstances within the ruling elite. While the prospect of change leads to uncertainties, it also opens a window for potential reform and renewed dialogues domestically and internationally.
In summary, as Iran faces a possible leadership transition, the eyes of the world will be on the political maneuvers within the country, which could either stabilize or further complicate its internal dynamics.