Who Is Mojtaba Khamenei? The Man Chosen as Iran’s New Supreme Leader

Iran: Just a week after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been elected as the country's new Supreme Leader. The announcement came late on Monday night, when the Experts Assembly released an official statement. The country is currently stuck in the middle of a war—attacks by America and Israel continue from outside, and the political atmosphere inside is tense. In such a time, all the responsibility has now fallen on the shoulders of Mojtaba.

Who is Mojtaba Khamenei?

Mojtaba was born on 8 September 1969 in Mashhad city. Mashhad is a big religious city of Iran. He is the second son of Ali Khamenei's six children. His father ran the country as the Supreme Leader for more than 30 years. Mojtaba always remained behind the scenes—not seen in many public events nor in the media much. For this reason, for years people used to say that the real power was in their hands, but it was never visible from the front.

What is his educational and religious background?

He studied Islamic theology in the city of Qom. Qom is the largest center of study of Shia religion. After completing his studies, he himself started giving religious education there. He received the status of 'Hujjat al-Islam', which is one step below Ayatollah. His family are Syed—that is, descendants of the Prophet Muhammad – so he is already well respected in religious circles.

How deep is the connection to the security system?

His name has been linked to the IRGC – Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps—for many years. It is said that after the Iran-Iraq war, he worked in a combat unit. With time he built good relations with conservative leaders and security people. He did not hold any major government post, but he had influence even without the post.

Why did America impose sanctions?

In 2019, America had banned Mojtaba. Washington's allegation was that he plays an important role in carrying forward his father's policies and runs domestic and external policies in collaboration with security agencies.
Some opposition groups in Iran alleged his role in suppressing the protests that followed the 2009 presidential election, but no official evidence ever emerged.

Has family rule now started in Iran?

This is the first time since the Islamic Revolution of 1979 that the post of Supreme Leader has gone to the same family. First came Khamenei from Khomeini – both were different. Now with the arrival of Mojtaba, some people are saying that it has become like a hereditary system.

Now it remains to be seen what Mojtaba does in this difficult time. War is going on, attacks are going on, Trump had already said that it is "unacceptable" if his son becomes the leader. Israel is also saying that the new leader will also be a target. Overall, Mojtaba now holds the most powerful post in Iran, but the challenges are huge.