Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared that any future Iranian leader chosen to replace Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will be targeted for assassination if they continue policies hostile to Israel and its allies. His warning follows the killing of Khamenei in joint United States and Israeli strikes on Tehran, as Iran's leadership assembly meets to appoint a successor.

Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader's 56-year-old son, has emerged as a leading candidate despite lacking senior clerical rank or formal government office. He is believed to wield significant behind-the-scenes influence and maintains close ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij paramilitary force. His potential succession has sparked controversy, as hereditary leadership is widely viewed as contrary to the principles of Iran's clerical system.

The conflict has intensified across the region, with ongoing missile and drone exchanges involving Iran, Israel and allied forces. Strikes have hit targets in Tehran, Beirut and Gulf states, causing civilian casualties and damage to diplomatic and military sites. Iranian forces have also claimed control over the Strait of Hormuz, warning that passing vessels could be at risk, raising fears over global energy supplies as the confrontation enters its fifth day.