Appointing a new leader is the least of Iran’s troubles

The Guardian - World NewsEN 5 min read 100% complete by Patrick Wintour Diplomatic editorMarch 8, 2026 at 08:20 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

The Assembly of Experts in Iran has reportedly chosen Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the next supreme leader, though an official announcement is delayed due to voting procedure disputes. If in-person voting is waived, the appointment could be declared as a consensus. Former President Rouhani suggested delaying the announcement to avoid distracting from defense efforts. The potential appointment faces opposition from figures like Donald Trump and internal concerns about inexperience during wartime. Currently, Iran is governed by a temporary tripartite leadership council, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, whose attempt to improve relations with Gulf states by apologizing for Iranian attacks was undermined by internal opposition, continued attacks, and criticism from Trump.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Abbas Araghchi 40% Russia 40% Ali Larijani 50% Israel 50% United States 60% Hassan Rouhani 60% Masoud Pezeshkian ×470% Donald Trump ×270% Assembly of Experts of Iran 80% Mojtaba Khamenei 80% Ali Khamenei ×290% Iran ×9100%

Keywords

iran 100% supreme leader 90% mojtaba khamenei 80% leadership succession 80% ayatollah ali khamenei 70% masoud pezeshkian 60% gulf states 60% political instability 60% internal opposition 50% hassan rouhani 50%