Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new supreme leader of Iran, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, just over a week after he was killed in US-Israeli strikes.
New Iranian Supreme Leader
The 56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei is described as a hard-line figure with close ties to the powerful Revolutionary Guard. Israel has already described him as a potential target.
The appointment comes amid strong reactions from the United States. Last week, President Donald Trump stated that he should have a say in selecting a new leader, calling Mojtaba Khamenei a “lightweight” and declaring him “unacceptable.”
The current situation has also drawn comment from South Africa. ANC NEC member Lindiwe Zulu expressed her belief that nations have the right to elect their own leaders, stating, “It is the same here in South Africa: when somebody else, somewhere else, says to us, ‘Don’t elect this one; elect this one’, of course, it goes according to our own beliefs.” Zulu wished Mojtaba Khamenei and Iran well.
Zulu emphasized the importance of dialogue in achieving peace in the Middle East, stating, “We have to respect decisions that are made by other nations, whoever they want them, want to lead them.” She also described the ongoing war as being “of no benefit to anyone.”
Recent tensions between the US and South Africa have included the demarching of US ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell III by International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, following what were described as “undiplomatic” remarks. Bozell arrived in South Africa less than a month ago and was critical of South Africa’s current policy trajectories.
The deterioration of relations between the two countries began when President Trump signed an executive order suspending US aid to South Africa and announced a refugee programme targeting Afrikaners. South Africa has not had an ambassador in Washington since March 2025, when its last ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, was expelled by the Trump administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new supreme leader of Iran?
Mojtaba Khamenei, the 56-year-old son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is the new supreme leader of Iran.
What has been the reaction from the United States?
President Donald Trump has called Mojtaba Khamenei “unacceptable” and stated that he should have been involved in the appointment process.
What is Lindiwe Zulu’s position on the situation?
Lindiwe Zulu believes that nations have the right to elect their own leaders and wishes Mojtaba Khamenei and Iran well, while emphasizing the importance of peace and dialogue in the Middle East.
Given the strong reactions from international actors, what steps might Iran take to navigate this new political landscape and address concerns about its future direction?
