Story perspectives

Iran Appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader Amid Controversy

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mojtaba Khamenei has been named Iran's new supreme leader after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death in Israeli airstrikes.
The appointment has faced opposition, including from his late father, who requested in his will that Mojtaba not succeed him.
Critics say Mojtaba lacks government experience, having never held a formal government position.
The U.S. has shown strong disapproval, with U.S. President Donald Trump calling Mojtaba 'unacceptable' and hinting at action.

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Story summary

Mojtaba Khamenei has been named Iran's new supreme leader after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death in Israeli airstrikes.
The appointment has faced opposition, including from his late father, who requested in his will that Mojtaba not succeed him.
Critics say Mojtaba lacks government experience, having never held a formal government position.
The U.S. has shown strong disapproval, with U.S. President Donald Trump calling Mojtaba 'unacceptable' and hinting at action.