Iran’s new supreme leader has been selected, says deciding body

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Lorenzo TondoMarch 8, 2026 at 12:36 PM

AI Summary

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Iran's Assembly of Experts has selected a new Supreme Leader to succeed Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli strike in late February. While the chosen successor's name has not been publicly announced, the selection was confirmed by multiple members of the Assembly. Israel has warned it will target any successor and those involved in the appointment. Mojtaba Khamenei, the deceased leader's son, was considered a frontrunner, although his appointment faces opposition due to concerns about dynastic succession and the regime's human rights record. The selection process occurs amid escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, including strikes on energy infrastructure across the Gulf and inside Iran, with Russia reportedly providing Iran with intelligence.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Tehran 30% Russia 40% Saudi Arabia ×240% Mohammad Mehdi Mirbagheri 50% Mohsen Heydari 60% Mojtaba Khamenei ×270% United States ×270% Assembly of Experts ×280% Israel ×590% Ali Khamenei ×4100% Iran ×10100%

Keywords

supreme leader 100% iran 90% israel 80% assembly of experts 70% succession 60% ali khamenei 60% mojtaba khamenei 50% iranian strikes 50% us-israeli strikes 50% shia clerical establishment 40%