Mojtaba Khamenei Named Iran's New Supreme Leader

0:00On March 10th, Iran's assembly of experts has named Mojtaba Khamenei, the 56-year-old son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as the country's new supreme leader. This came just days after a missile strike killed his father on the first day of the ongoing war. Long viewed as a top hardliner in the clerical establishment, Mojtaba steps into the role amid heightened tensions. Earlier this week, reports surface that Mojtaba was injured in a bomb blast, though it's unclear if it was the same attack that took his father's life. He hasn't appeared publicly since the conflict started, likely due to threats from Israel and the United States. Tehran has also enforced a near-total communications blackout, limiting contact with those inside the country. Many Iranians express fear over the choice, saying it signals no real shift in leadership, and that Mojtaba is just as tough as his father. Americans worry he'll seek revenge on ordinary people if he can't strike back at foreign foes.

1:00Still, thousands gathered in Tehran's streets to show support and pledge loyalty. Israel has made it clear that whoever takes the top job is a target, with officials calling Mojtaba a marked man. President Donald Trump dismissed the election process, stating the new leader needs American approval to last. A British foreign office minister echoed that view, noting it points to business as usual for Iran's hardline stance. As the war rages on, eyes remain fixed on Mojtaba's next moves, and whether international pressures will force any quick changes in Tehran.