Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is reportedly in a coma, with claims emerging that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been selected as his successor. This information comes from an Israeli media outlet, Ynet News, which cited the Iranian outlet Iran International. Reports indicate that Mojtaba, the 85-year-old leader’s second son, was chosen during a secretive meeting of the Assembly of Experts that took place on September 26, at Khamenei’s request.
The meeting, attended by 60 members, was said to be characterized by significant pressure to achieve a unanimous decision, including alleged threats from Khamenei and his representatives. Over recent years, Mojtaba Khamenei has increased his influence within the Iranian regime, though he has maintained a low public profile. He was instrumental in suppressing the 2009 post-election protests and was granted the title of ayatollah in 2021, a constitutional requirement for the role of Supreme Leader.
Sources suggest that the decision to name Mojtaba Khamenei as successor was deliberately kept confidential to avert potential public backlash, as fears of widespread protests loomed large. Members of the assembly were reportedly warned of severe repercussions should any details of their meeting leak. It appears that Khamenei aims to transfer power to his son while he is still alive to ensure a smooth transition and reduce the chance of opposition.
The speculated health crisis surrounding the Supreme Leader has arisen amid ongoing internal and external pressures facing the Iranian regime, highlighting the significant challenges it encounters in sustaining control.
This situation underscores the complexities within Iran’s political landscape and the potential for a significant shift in power dynamics. As the nation grapples with various pressures, a smooth transition of leadership could pave the way for stability, allowing the next generation of leadership to address the myriad challenges facing the Iranian people.
Summary: Reports suggest that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is in a coma, with his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, allegedly named as his successor during a secretive assembly meeting. The move aims to ensure a controlled transition of power amid increasing pressures on the regime.