Mojtaba will be the next Supreme Leader of Iran! Why did Khamenei suddenly choose his son as his successor

In Iran, the growing influence of Mojtaba Khamenei within the regime has been evident over the past two years. Although he has rarely appeared in public, he is known for his alleged role in suppressing the 2009 post-election protests.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (File photo)

There are signs of a major change in Iran's politics amid the war with Israel. A report by Iran International claims that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's second son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen as his successor. It is being said that this decision was taken in a secret meeting held on 26 September. This meeting was called by Ali Khamenei. This meeting was organized due to the deteriorating health of 85-year-old Khamenei.

Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has reportedly been chosen as his father's successor during a secret meeting, Israeli media outlet Ynet News reported, citing a report by Iran International.

Khamenei called a meeting

The meeting was called at the request of leader Ali Khamenei (85), who is reportedly suffering from health problems. The 60-member assembly reportedly faced considerable pressure to reach a unanimous decision, including threats from Khamenei and his deputies.

Growing influence of the Mojtaba

Mojtaba Khamenei's growing influence within the regime has been evident over the past two years. Although he has rarely appeared in public, he is known for his alleged role in suppressing the 2009 post-election protests. In 2021, he was given the title of Ayatollah, which fulfills the constitutional requirements for the role of supreme leader.

Trying to avoid public protest

Iran International reports that the decision was kept secret to avoid public outrage. It says, "Fearing widespread public opposition, the assembly has resolved to maintain maximum secrecy over the decision and members were warned of severe consequences for any leaks."

Khamenei seriously ill

The Iranian government has not yet responded to these claims. Sources claim that Khamenei is planning to transfer power to his son while he is still alive to ensure a smooth transfer of power and avoid protests. On Saturday, several posts circulated on social media alleging that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had fallen into a coma.

A New York Times report in October said Khamenei was seriously ill. However, there has been no official confirmation or statement from Iranian officials about any further deterioration in his health.