Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of the late Ali Khamenei, has been chosen as Iran’s new Supreme Leader—a decision that will likely draw criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.
The appointment of Mojtaba, 56, who was known as a powerful figure operating behind the scenes during his father’s tenure, appears to have strengthened the Iranian regime’s resolve amid the ongoing war, now in its 10th day. Senior officials have vowed to continue fighting.
“We pledge that, in defense of the rights of the great Iranian nation, the advancement of national interests and security, and the realization of the lofty goals of the Islamic Revolution, we shall not falter for a moment,” said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shortly after the announcement.
A statement from the defense council affirmed their commitment, stating, “We will obey the commander-in-chief until the last drop of our blood.”
These hardline pledges contrast with Trump’s demand for “unconditional surrender” from Iran—a position echoed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who stated Iran will have “no choice” but to back down.
Trump calls Mojtaba an “unacceptable” choice
“Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me. We aim for someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” Trump told Axios on Thursday. He expressed a desire to be involved in the selection of Iran’s new leader, referencing a similar situation that unfolded after U.S. Forces captured Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro in January.
Trump reportedly told Fox News he is “not happy” following the announcement of Mojtaba’s appointment. He previously argued that Mojtaba wasn’t a viable choice and indicated the U.S. Wouldn’t support that line of succession.
Trump warns he doesn’t want the U.S. To have to return to Iran in the future
Trump explained his desire to be involved in the selection process, arguing it’s “so we don’t have to go back every five years and do this again and again.” He stated, “We want somebody that’s going to be great for the people, great for the country,” adding that Mojtaba was an unlikely choice.
While Trump said he doesn’t wish for the U.S. To have to return to Iran, he did not provide a timeline for when the current war might end, stating it is “moving along ahead of schedule, and much stronger than anybody would have ever expected.”
Trump says the new Supreme Leader won’t “last long”
The U.S. President warned Sunday that a new leader “is not going to last long” if they are appointed without his prior approval. “He’s going to have to get approval from us. If he doesn’t get approval from us, he’s not going to last long,” he told ABC News.
Reiterating earlier remarks, Trump added: “We want to make sure that we don’t have to go back every 10 years, when you don’t have a President like me that’s not going to do it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment?
The appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, who was known to be a powerful figure behind the scenes during his father’s leadership, has seemingly strengthened the Iranian regime’s resolve against the U.S. And is likely to draw criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.
What has been Trump’s reaction to the appointment?
Trump has repeatedly stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is an “unacceptable” choice to lead Iran and has expressed a desire to be involved in the selection of the new leader, similar to the situation in Venezuela. He warned that the new leader “is not going to last long” without his approval.
What is the current state of the conflict between the U.S. And Iran?
The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has entered its 10th day, with Iranian officials vowing to continue fighting. Trump has demanded “unconditional surrender” from Iran, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated Iran will have “no choice” but to back down.
Given the strong statements from both sides, what impact will this leadership transition have on the ongoing conflict and potential for future negotiations?
