Who is Mojtaba Khamenei — the Potential Successor to Iran's Supreme Leader?

 Iran's Assembly of Experts has been directed to make a swift and confidential decision on the matter of succession.

According to a report by Iran International, the 85-year-old Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, is reportedly suffering from a severe illness and is expected to step down soon, paving the way for his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, to succeed him.

On September 26, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reportedly convened 60 members of Iran’s Assembly of Experts, urging them to make an urgent and confidential decision about his succession. According to reports, the assembly unanimously voted for Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, as his successor. However, despite the unanimous vote, several members allegedly opposed both the decision and the process but were pressured by Khamenei and his representatives. Some sources even claim that direct threats were used to influence their choice, as reported by News18.

Here's a closer look at everything we know about Mojtaba Khamenei, the potential successor to Iran's highest authority:

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Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was born in Mashhad in 1969. He studied theology under the guidance of his father and other prominent scholars, eventually becoming a cleric himself. Today, he continues to teach theology at the Qom seminary.

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Mojtaba is married to Zahra Haddad-Adel, and the couple has three children.

Role in the 2009 Elections

Mojtaba played a significant role in Iran's 2005 and 2009 elections as a supporter of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He is believed to have been influential in Ahmadinejad's controversial victory in 2009. Following the election, widespread protests erupted in June 2009, and Mojtaba reportedly led efforts to suppress the anti-government demonstrations.

However, his relationship with Ahmadinejad later deteriorated after the former president accused Mojtaba of embezzling funds from the state treasury.

The Next Supreme Leader?

Speculation is rife about Mojtaba Khamenei potentially succeeding his father as Iran's next Supreme Leader. However, despite the possibility, he may encounter resistance from the Assembly of Experts, even though the body is largely seen as ceremonial.

Mojtaba is rumored to have access to significant financial resources. However, The Guardian suggests that his political influence may still fall short of securing him the position of Supreme Leader.