Iranians Divided Over Mojtaba Khamenei’s Rise as New Supreme Leader
Iran is witnessing deep divisions following the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new Supreme Leader, succeeding his father, Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during the opening phase of a war involving the United States and Israel.
The decision by the powerful Assembly of Experts has triggered a mix of celebration and condemnation across the country, reflecting a nation sharply divided over the future direction of the Islamic Republic.
Pro-Establishment Celebrations Across Iran
In several cities, including Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad, the birthplace of Mojtaba Khamenei, supporters of the ruling establishment gathered in rallies to celebrate the leadership transition.
State broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran News Network aired footage of large crowds waving Iranian flags and chanting slogans in support of the new leader. Many participants carried portraits of Mojtaba Khamenei alongside images of his late father, pledging loyalty and expressing confidence in the continuation of the country’s current political path.
One woman attending a rally praised the decision by the clerical leadership, describing the appointment as a divine blessing. She thanked the Assembly of Experts, saying that the “hand of God” was guiding the nation and ensuring continuity in leadership.
Another supporter echoed similar sentiments, saying the choice could not have been better and that the decision had brought comfort and hope to many loyalists of the Islamic Republic.
Opposition Voices and Public Skepticism
However, not all Iranians share this enthusiasm. Several citizens interviewed in Tehran expressed strong skepticism, arguing that Mojtaba Khamenei’s rise signals continuity rather than reform.
One resident in his thirties said the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei eliminated even the smallest hope for change within the political system. According to him, the Assembly of Experts could not have chosen anyone more closely aligned with the policies and ideology of the late leader.
He argued that the system would remain largely unchanged, suggesting that supporters would not even need to modify their political slogans because the direction of governance would likely remain the same.
Social media footage verified by BBC Persian and BBC Verify also revealed scenes of dissent, with demonstrators chanting slogans against Mojtaba Khamenei and criticizing the ruling establishment. In contrast, other groups were heard chanting religious slogans such as “Allahu Akbar,” signaling support for the leadership transition.
A Quiet Figure with Alleged Influence
At 56, Mojtaba Khamenei had maintained a relatively low public profile during his father’s decades-long rule. Nevertheless, he was widely rumored to wield significant influence behind the scenes.
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Previously released U.S. diplomatic cables published by WikiLeaks described him as a key power broker within the Iranian political system, referring to him as “the power behind the robes.” The documents suggested he was regarded by some officials as a capable and assertive figure within the ruling elite.
Mojtaba Khamenei has also been associated with the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and has faced accusations from critics of influencing presidential elections and maintaining ties with the paramilitary Basij force.
Fears of Escalation and External Pressure
Some Iranians fear that Mojtaba Khamenei’s leadership could intensify both domestic repression and international tensions.
A woman in her forties in Tehran described him as potentially more hardline than his father and speculated that his leadership could make him a target for adversaries such as the United States and Israel.
Others suggested the appointment indicates that Iran’s political trajectory will remain unchanged or could even become more rigid.
International Reactions
The leadership transition has also drawn attention from global powers. Former U.S. President Donald Trump had earlier indicated he hoped to influence the selection of Iran’s next supreme leader and publicly described Mojtaba Khamenei as “unacceptable.”
Trump warned that any leader chosen without his approval might not remain in power for long.
Meanwhile, Israel signaled that its confrontation with Iran’s leadership would continue regardless of who assumed the role. Israeli officials stated they would “pursue every successor,” highlighting the intense geopolitical pressures surrounding the leadership change.
Uncertain Future
Despite the celebrations among supporters, Mojtaba Khamenei has not yet made a public appearance or delivered a speech since the announcement of his appointment.
For many observers inside and outside Iran, his first public address and early policy signals will be crucial in determining whether his leadership will consolidate the existing political order or usher in a new phase in the country’s turbulent political landscape.
