Iran’s Supreme Leader Succession: Mojtaba Khamenei Faces Resistance

The Islamic Republic of Iran is navigating a turbulent succession process following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a recent U.S. And Israeli airstrike. While his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been selected as the next Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, the decision is facing significant internal opposition, primarily from within the Assembly itself and fueled by pressure from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

IRGC’s Role in the Succession

According to Iran International, the IRGC played a pivotal role in pushing for Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment. This move appears to prioritize stability and control amidst ongoing regional tensions and a leadership vacuum. The IRGC seeks to maintain the existing chain of command and prevent internal divisions within the regime.

Experts note that the IRGC’s support for Mojtaba stems from his ability to provide a sense of continuity with his father and maintain legitimacy within the core base of the Islamic Republic – hard-line politicians, security institutions, and loyal networks. Mojtaba Khamenei also has long-standing ties to the IRGC, having served in the Iran-Iraq war and cultivated relationships within its command structure. NDTV reports that the IRGC has taken a far greater role in the hierarchy since the beginning of the recent conflict.

Opposition Within the Assembly of Experts

Despite the IRGC’s efforts, the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei is not without opposition. Iran International reports that eight members of the 88-member Assembly of Experts have refused to attend a Thursday meeting convened to formalize the appointment, citing “heavy pressure” from the IRGC. The assembly is reportedly meeting online after an initial meeting was disrupted by an IDF airstrike.

Critics within the Assembly have raised concerns about “hereditary leadership,” fearing a shift towards a monarchical structure. Some argue that Mojtaba Khamenei lacks the necessary public clerical and jurisprudential standing to hold the position of Supreme Leader. One Assembly member reportedly told colleagues that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had expressed disapproval of his son’s leadership during his lifetime.

Mojtaba Khamenei’s Background

Born in 1969 in Mashhad, Mojtaba Khamenei grew up during the opposition to the Shah and served in the Iran-Iraq war. He later studied at religious seminaries in Hom, achieving the clerical rank of Hojjatoleslam. Reuters notes that while he has never held a formal government position, he has been widely seen as a key intermediary between his father and the IRGC.

He has appeared at loyalist rallies but rarely speaks publicly. The New York Times suggests that his selection could anger Iranians seeking change.

Political Alliances

Mojtaba Khamenei has forged close political alliances with key figures within the Iranian establishment, including Ahmad Vahidi, the newly appointed IRGC commander. Hossein Taeb, a former head of the IRGC’s intelligence organization; and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.