Iran’s clerical leadership has reportedly chosen a new supreme leader following the death of longtime leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike last week.
Assembly of Experts Holds Vote
A member of Iran’s powerful Assembly of Experts, Ahmad Alamolhoda, confirmed to Iranian state media that the council elected a new leader during a recent meeting. However, officials have not yet publicly revealed the successor’s name.
According to reports, members of the assembly are divided on how and when the announcement should be made. Some believe the decision can be revealed immediately, while others argue another session is needed before confirming the choice.
Security Concerns Delay Announcement
The delay may also be linked to security threats. The Israel Defense Forces warned it would target any successor to Khamenei, raising concerns about the safety of the new leader.
In a message posted in Farsi on X, the Israeli military said it would pursue anyone involved in appointing the next leader.
War Continues to Escalate
The leadership decision comes as the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel enters its ninth day. The war began after joint U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran on Feb. 28.
Israeli forces have struck sites in Tehran and southern Lebanon, including oil storage facilities, while Iranian attacks have targeted regional infrastructure such as a desalination plant in Bahrain.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the next phase of the conflict could bring “many surprises.”
Officials report that the conflict has already killed more than 1,200 people in Iran, hundreds in Lebanon, and several in Israel.
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