Lethal elite 'black-clad' kill squad guards Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

Amidst an ongoing war with the United States and Israel, Iran's Assembly of Experts has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026. The 56-year-old, with strong ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is seen as a figure of continuity for the theocratic establishment. The IRGC, along with the Iranian army, police, Defence Council, and Intelligence Minister, have pledged their allegiance to the new leader. The IRGC stated its forces are ready to obey Khamenei's commands to uphold the values of the Islamic revolution. This transition occurs as Iran faces external conflict, signaling a potential continuation of existing policies.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran's state media is showcasing pro-Mojtaba Khamenei rallies across the country, with citizens pledging loyalty to the new leader. These displays contrast sharply with earlier celebrations of Ali Khamenei's death, fueled by public anger over decades of repression. Despite an internet blackout, reports suggest some Iranians fear increased repression under Mojtaba, who has strong ties to the IRGC and Basij militia. Mojtaba's appointment follows the strike that killed his father and other family members. The prosecutor general has warned Iranians against cooperating with the US and Israel, signaling a potential crackdown amid the ongoing war.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has become Iran's new leader. Selected by the Assembly of Experts, Mojtaba assumes power as the Islamic Republic faces what is described as an existential battle. While supporters celebrated his appointment, some protesters voiced opposition, fearing an even harsher regime. Mojtaba, considered an ultraconservative, has worked within his father's government for decades and has close ties to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC, which holds significant security and economic power, reportedly supported his candidacy. The war is described as personal, as Mojtaba also lost his mother in the same Israeli strike that killed his father.

Fighting between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has entered its second week, raising significant questions about the conflict's duration, objectives, and economic impact. The war began on February 28th, and there are no signs of it ending soon. Iran is retaliating against Israel, U.S. assets, and neighboring Arab countries. Mediation efforts are reportedly underway, although details are scarce. A key unknown is the stance of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father after the war's initial strikes. Seen as more hard-line, his intentions regarding negotiations or continued conflict remain unclear. Iran's strategy of regional disruption persists, with attacks reported in Persian Gulf countries.

On March 9, 2026, Mojtaba Khamenei was named Iran's new supreme leader, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This transition occurred amidst ongoing attacks on Iran by the US and Israel, with explosions reported in Qom and Tehran. Israeli attacks on Iranian oil facilities earlier caused toxic smoke to spread across Tehran. Iran's military and political leaders have reportedly pledged allegiance to the new supreme leader. Saudi Arabia has reported two deaths amid Iranian counterattacks.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen as Iran's new supreme leader. This transition occurs amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran is reportedly conducting retaliatory strikes across the region, including a drone attack in Bahrain that injured 32 people. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have also reported new attacks and interceptions of missiles and drones. The escalating conflict has caused oil prices to surge past $100 a barrel, triggering fears of global inflation and causing the Australian share market to plunge.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Assembly of Experts has reportedly elected his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader. Mojtaba, 56, has been involved in Iranian politics, working in his father's office and developing close ties with the IRGC. He began formal clerical studies in Tehran in 1989. The U.S. sanctioned Mojtaba in 2019 for representing the Supreme Leader in an official capacity without holding an elected government position. Former President Trump expressed his disapproval of Mojtaba's potential succession, stating he was unacceptable. Mojtaba's rise to Supreme Leader comes after his father's death and amidst heightened tensions in the region.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been selected as Iran's new Supreme Leader. The decision, announced by the clerical body responsible for selecting the leader, marks the first hereditary succession since the 1979 revolution. Iranian state media reports that key institutions, including the armed forces and Revolutionary Guards, have pledged allegiance to Mojtaba. The appointment has been met with swift condemnation from the US, with President Trump deeming Mojtaba an "unacceptable" choice and asserting that Washington should have a say in Iran's political future. The Israeli military has also stated it will pursue any successor to Ali Khamenei. The selection is expected to ignite debate within Iran regarding the emergence of a dynastic system.

Iranian state TV announced on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, a son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been named his successor. Mojtaba Khamenei was considered a potential successor even before his father was killed in an Israeli strike at the start of the war. The strike, which targeted the supreme leader's offices, also killed Mojtaba's wife. Despite being a secretive figure, Mojtaba had long been viewed as a contender for the position. He assumes the role despite never having been elected or appointed to any government position.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, Iran has appointed his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader. The announcement was made by clerics, with support quickly pledged by the IRGC, armed forces, and key political figures. Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has been a highly influential figure within the Supreme Leader's inner circle for decades, cultivating strong ties to the IRGC. Analysts suggest his appointment indicates the continued power of hardline factions within the Iranian government. As the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei will lead Iran through a period of significant crisis amidst a growing regional war.

The US-Israel war on Iran has entered its second week, prompting international concern. US President Trump claims Iran is being "decimated" but has not ruled out deploying troops, while China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the war. Iran claims it can sustain the conflict for at least six more months, despite Israeli strikes on Tehran fuel storage complexes. An Israeli strike on Beirut, Lebanon, resulted in casualties. The conflict continues to escalate, with regional implications and international calls for de-escalation.

On Sunday, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar reported missile and drone attacks, as Iran vowed to continue strikes against neighboring Gulf countries. Qatar stated it was targeted the previous day by multiple ballistic and cruise missiles fired from Iran, most of which were intercepted. Saudi Arabia's defense ministry reported intercepting and destroying fifteen drones entering its airspace. Kuwait's military reported responding to hostile drones that penetrated its airspace, with fuel tanks at Kuwait's international airport being targeted. Kuwait's national oil company also announced a precautionary cut to production. These incidents mark the second week of escalating regional conflict.

An Israeli strike hit an Iranian oil storage facility in Tehran on Saturday, marking the first time a civilian industrial site has been targeted in the week-old conflict. Iranian state media confirmed the attack, attributing it to the US and Israel, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised "many surprises" in the next phase of the war. The strikes occurred as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized for attacks on neighboring countries. The incident highlights a potential rift within Iran's leadership between those seeking de-escalation and hardliners committed to battling the US and Israel, potentially complicating diplomatic efforts. Conflicting statements have emerged from members of the leadership council overseeing Iran since the Supreme Leader's death.

In a pre-recorded address broadcast on state television on March 7, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized for Iran's attacks on neighboring countries. The apology comes amidst ongoing attacks on Gulf nations. Shortly after the statement's release, an explosion was reported over Doha. The reason for President Pezeshkian's apology was not stated. The context of the attacks on neighboring countries remains unclear.

On March 7, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected US demands for Iran's unconditional surrender, calling it unrealistic. In a televised address, he apologized for recent Iranian attacks on neighboring Gulf states, attributing them to miscommunication and a loss of command and control following the death of Iran's supreme leader. Despite the apology and promise to halt attacks, intense Iranian fire continued to target Gulf Arab states. This occurred amidst ongoing air strikes by Israel and the United States against Iran. The Iranian president stated that the country's leadership council was addressing the situation with the armed forces.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently apologized for past Iranian strikes targeting neighboring Gulf states. This action occurred amidst ongoing tensions in the region. However, Pezeshkian later retracted his apology following criticism from other Iranian leaders. Despite the initial apology and subsequent reversal, Iran has continued its attacks, highlighting potential rifts within the Iranian leadership regarding foreign policy and regional relations. The situation underscores the complex dynamics and ongoing conflicts involving Iran and its Gulf neighbors.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in attacks by the US and Israel in March 2026, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has emerged as a leading contender to become the next Supreme Leader of Iran. Mojtaba, a hardline cleric with close ties to the IRGC, has been influential behind the scenes for decades, despite never holding public office or being publicly vetted. His potential succession signals the continued strength of hardline factions within the Iranian government. While he has maintained a low public profile, he has been accused of involvement in the violent suppression of protests. If appointed, it would create a dynastic succession reminiscent of the pre-revolution monarchy.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is being considered as a possible successor amidst ongoing conflict. The Israeli airstrike that killed his father and wife has elevated his profile, despite his lack of elected or appointed government positions. Mojtaba, a secretive figure, has not been seen publicly since the attack and is believed to be in hiding. His potential succession has been criticized as resembling a hereditary monarchy, a departure from the Islamic Republic's principles. The possibility of Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the role of Supreme Leader is circulating as American and Israeli airstrikes continue in Iran.

Mojtaba Khamenei is the son of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and is being discussed as a possible successor. The article focuses on the potential implications of his selection. The discussion arises after a strike on a compound on Saturday killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This potential succession is significant because it could provoke anger among Iranians who desire political change. The article suggests that the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei could be a pivotal moment for Iran's future, given the existing desire for change.

Iran has postponed a planned farewell ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. The three-day program was scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 p.m. local time at Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall, where large crowds were expected to gather. The postponement followed widespread requests to participate and the need for adequate infrastructure and facilities. No additional reason for the postponement was given, and it is unclear when the ceremony will be rescheduled. Ayatollah Khamenei's death triggers a closely watched succession process overseen by Iran's Assembly of Experts, which will heavily influence its outcome. The ceremony's postponement comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, US officials are reportedly skeptical that a regime change in Iran is likely in the near future. Despite President Trump's call for Iranian patriots to "take back" their country, three US officials familiar with intelligence suggest that Iran's opposition is unlikely to topple the current theocratic government. While not completely ruling out the possibility due to ongoing US and Israeli air strikes and internal unrest, officials consider a near-term regime change improbable. The Iranian President, along with other officials, have temporarily assumed the duties of the supreme leader. The US and Israeli operation aimed to cripple Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programs, with some US officials suggesting toppling the government as a goal.

The US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran has vowed retaliation, drawing regional powers into the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and senior cleric Alireza Arafi will lead Iran in the transitional period. Donald Trump expressed willingness to negotiate with the remaining Iranian leadership. Elsewhere, the UK's RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was hit by a suspected drone strike, causing minor damage. In the UK, new asylum rules designate refugee status as temporary, lasting 30 months, and the Green Party's membership surpassed 200,000 after a byelection victory. Concerns are also rising about the potential impact of data centers on the UK's greenhouse gas emissions.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in March 2026, Iran retaliated by targeting Israel and US-linked military sites in the region, including in Gulf states hosting US forces. The exchange raises concerns about escalating conflict and Iran's capacity to strike back. Central to Iran's strategy is its large and diverse missile arsenal, including ballistic and cruise missiles, providing long-range capabilities. Iranian officials consider the missile program a key deterrent, especially given its aging air force. Western governments, however, view Iran's missile capabilities as destabilizing and potentially linked to nuclear ambitions, claims Iran denies.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a U.S. and Israeli bombardment, Iran is facing a succession crisis as it chooses its second supreme leader since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Potential replacements include hard-liners favoring confrontation with the West and reformists seeking diplomacy. The supreme leader holds ultimate authority over key decisions, including matters of war, peace, and the nuclear program. Currently, a provisional governing council consisting of President Masoud Pezeshkian, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and cleric Ayatollah Ali Reza Arafi is managing the country during this critical period. The Foreign Minister is Abbas Aragh.

Following the deaths of Supreme Leader Khamenei and top commanders in Tehran on Saturday, US and Israeli air strikes continue to hit Tehran and other Iranian cities on March 1, 2026. The strikes, which Israel claims targeted military centers, have been met with limited comment from Iranian authorities amid internet blackouts. Despite the attacks, Iran's remaining leaders are emphasizing continuity and vowing revenge. A leadership council, formed after Khamenei's death, has begun the process of selecting a new supreme leader, expected to be completed within days. In the interim, a three-member council consisting of the judiciary chief, the president, and a member of the Guardian Council will govern. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is also expected to play a significant role.

According to Iranian sources, at least 108 people, many of whom were girls, died in an explosion at a school in Minab, Hormozgan province, in southern Iran. The incident occurred during reported air strikes by the US and Israel against targets in Iran, including a nearby base of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The Iranian Red Crescent reports over 200 deaths and hundreds injured nationwide from the strikes. While the US and Israel have not confirmed involvement in the school attack, the incident has sparked anger and accusations within Iran, with some blaming the government for failing to protect civilians. International news organizations face restrictions in independently verifying information due to limited access to Iran.

Following U.S. and Israeli strikes that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other top officials on Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the action as a "cynical violation" of international norms. In a letter to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Putin expressed condolences and praised Khamenei's contribution to Russian-Iranian relations. The Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, also condemned the strikes during a U.N. Security Council meeting, accusing the U.S. of undermining international stability and vowing to exercise Iran's right to self-defense. Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated the strikes were ordered due to Iran's continued efforts to develop nuclear weapons, reiterating the U.S. policy of preventing Iran from acquiring such weapons.

Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli air strike, China condemned the action amidst turmoil in Tehran and regional escalation. Despite the political uncertainty, analysts predict China's economic relationship with Iran, as its top oil buyer and trade partner, will remain strong. China is expected to maintain a pragmatic approach to Iran's new leadership, even if Tehran shifts towards the West, potentially impacting Chinese diplomatic and defense goals in the Middle East. A temporary leadership council consisting of Alireza Arafi, Masoud Pezeshkian, and Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei will govern until the Assembly of Experts selects Khamenei's successor. The US President has called for regime change in Iran.

In March 2026, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli air attack, a significant blow to Iran's leadership since the 1979 revolution. The US, under President Trump, anticipates a swift collapse of the Iranian government, framing the operation as a "liberation" moment. However, analysts and insiders suggest the assassination could lead to a more militarized and aggressive Iranian state. They warn that the power vacuum might result in a "garrison state" willing to take extreme measures to survive. While Iran's President Pezeshkian vowed revenge, experts caution against assuming air strikes alone can trigger regime change without ground forces or internal uprising.

According to US President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has died following US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran has not confirmed the death of the 86-year-old, who has held the powerful position for three decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As Supreme Leader, Khamenei was head of state, commander-in-chief, and held significant influence over public policy and elections. Born in 1939, Khamenei rose to prominence as a critic of the Shah, facing imprisonment and exile before becoming a key figure in the post-revolution leadership. His weekly sermons broadcast nationwide solidified his position. His death, if confirmed, could lead to an uncertain future for Iran and the region.

In a recent military operation, President Trump authorized targeted strikes against Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a significant shift in his approach to Iran. This action contrasts with his stance eight months prior when he rejected an Israeli plan to kill Khamenei due to concerns about regional destabilization. The recent operation, conducted in collaboration with Israel, resulted in the deaths of Khamenei, the defense minister, and the commander of the Revolutionary Guard, as confirmed by Iranian state TV. Trump announced Khamenei's death and framed the operation as an opportunity for the Iranian people to reclaim their country. This represents a notable escalation in Trump's willingness to use military force against Iran compared to his earlier reluctance.

A coordinated US-Israeli strike targeted Iran on Saturday, reportedly killing several top Iranian leaders, including the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The operation involved a precision strike on a key target in Tehran, believed to be Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound, alongside a broader offensive using US-deployed kamikaze drones. US Central Command confirmed the use of these one-way attack drones, modeled after Iranian Shahed drones, for the first time in combat during "Operation Epic Fury." The attack, described as a "wildly bold daytime attack," targeted Iranian military, government, and intelligence sites, catching senior leadership off guard. Former President Trump announced that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed in the strike.

On February 28, 2026, Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Trump stated the 86-year-old Khamenei could not evade US intelligence and tracking systems. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also claimed there were "growing signs" of Khamenei's death, and Reuters cited an Israeli official reporting the body's location. However, Iranian news agencies Tasnim and Mehr reported that Khamenei remained in command, and an official from Khamenei's office accused enemies of "mental warfare." As of the report, there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei's death.

On Saturday morning, the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, targeting Iranian leaders and military sites. In response, Iran's IRGC fired missiles at US military bases in the Gulf, with explosions reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, resulting in one death in the UAE. Explosions also occurred in Tehran, near the presidential palace. Iran launched missiles at Israel, triggering air defense systems over Jerusalem. The US President vowed to crush Iran's military and eliminate its nuclear program, citing the need to defend Americans. The Israeli Prime Minister stated the operation aimed to remove an existential threat. These events followed inconclusive nuclear talks between the US and Iran.

In February 2026, the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, targeting areas in Tehran, including those near the presidential palace and Ayatollah Khamenei's compound and offices. The attacks have derailed nuclear program negotiations. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the 86-year-old Supreme Leader since 1989, holds ultimate authority in Iran. His location during the attacks is unconfirmed, with reports suggesting he was moved to a secure location. The attacks and Trump's calls for regime change raise questions about efforts to target Iran's leadership, given Khamenei's central role and the loyalty of key security forces like the IRGC and Basij. The US and Israel have a long history of adversarial relations with Iran.

In February 2026, reports emerged that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli air strikes on his compound in Iran. Khamenei assumed leadership in 1989 after the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who led the Islamic Revolution. While Khomeini provided the revolution's ideology, Khamenei developed Iran's military and paramilitary forces, extending its influence beyond its borders. His distrust of the West, particularly the United States, stemmed from the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, during which Western countries supported Saddam Hussein. This shaped his belief that Iran needed constant defense against external and internal threats, leading to the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a powerful institution.

Following reported Israeli strikes targeting Iranian leadership infrastructure in Tehran, the fate of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is currently unknown. The strikes heavily damaged Khamenei's fortified compound, including his residence and the House of Leadership, with some areas reduced to rubble. While Israeli officials are assessing the results and haven't confirmed Khamenei's death, they haven't ruled it out. Iranian officials insist Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are safe, despite what they call an assassination attempt. Reports indicate a high-level meeting may have been underway at the time of the strike. Khamenei, who operates with tight security and a network of loyalists, has survived previous assassination attempts and unrest.