Despite prior indications that a new supreme leader had already been selected, no public announcement has been made by the body responsible for choosing the successor to Ayatollah Ali Jamenei.
Several high-ranking clerics from the Assembly of Experts, comprised of 88 members, have voiced complaints regarding the delay.
Delay in Announcement
Ayatollah Abdullah Kayvani, a member of the Assembly, has called for the process of “presenting the fully qualified jurist chosen by the Assembly of Experts” to be expedited. Ayatollah Javad Ja’fari stated that the delay is “bitter and undesirable” and that accelerating the process is a “serious demand of the people,” according to the semi-official Mehr agency.
Rahim Tavakol, another representative of the Assembly, said its members have already fulfilled their duty and will “soon announce the successor” to Ali Jamenei, who died eight days ago in an Israeli airstrike against Tehran.
Some experts have speculated that the delay in the announcement is due to the Assembly of Experts being unable to meet physically given the threat of attacks from the United States and Israel.
Mohsen Borhani, a lawyer from the University of Tehran, wrote on X that, according to the Iranian Constitution and the Assembly’s own rules, at least two-thirds of its members must deliberate and consult in person. He added, “If these conditions are not met, any announcement would lack legal validity.”
Several hardline members of the Assembly had previously told state media that a decision had already been made, but none have revealed the name of the chosen candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Assembly of Experts?
The Assembly of Experts is a body comprised of 88 members responsible for choosing the successor to the Supreme Leader of Iran.
Why is there a delay in announcing the new Supreme Leader?
Some speculate the delay is due to the Assembly of Experts being unable to meet physically due to threats from the United States and Israel. Others cite constitutional requirements for in-person deliberation.
Has a decision already been made?
Several hardline members of the Assembly have stated that a decision has been made, but the name of the chosen candidate has not been revealed.
What impact will this leadership transition have on Iran’s regional and international relations?
