Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been chosen to replace his father after an Israeli airstrike killed the 86-year-old leader and his daughter-in-law at the outset of the war. Though Mojtaba Khamenei has never held an elected or formally appointed government position, he had long been viewed as a leading contender and influential figure within the Islamic Republic.

A largely secretive presence, he previously operated as a key aide, confidant, and gatekeeper to his father, building strong ties with Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard. His elevation follows deliberations by the Assembly of Experts amid reported internal divisions. Hard-line supporters have rallied behind him, portraying his father’s death as martyrdom in the conflict with Israel and the United States.

As supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei assumes ultimate authority over state affairs, including command of the military and oversight of Iran’s nuclear program and enriched uranium stockpile. His selection comes at a critical moment, following a brief but intense war with Israel and amid heightened tensions with the United States, placing him at the center of Iran’s military and political strategy.