Israel Vows to Target New Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

Following the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Israel has declared its intention to target anyone promoting radical ideologies against it, including the new leader himself. This announcement comes amid ongoing conflict between Israel, the U.S., and Iran, which entered its tenth day on March 8, 2026.

Danon’s Warning

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, stated on Monday, March 9, 2026, that Mojtaba Khamenei holds the same radical beliefs as his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. “Changing the man at the top does not change the regime,” Danon told reporters at the UN headquarters as reported by Reuters. He further emphasized, “The new leader, unfortunately, is more of the same ideology, the same radical ideas, and… Anyone who will promote those radical ideas against us, we will target them, we will find them.”

Assassination Threat

Danon’s remarks suggest a direct threat to Mojtaba Khamenei’s life. The Yeshiva World reports that Danon indicated Khamenei is “on the top of the list” for potential assassination.

Impact on Regional Stability

The war has effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments according to Reuters. Danon stated that Israel and the U.S. Are actively working to neutralize Iran’s missile capabilities to reduce attacks on civilian targets in neighboring countries and safeguard maritime traffic. He expressed optimism that the number of attacks is decreasing, though he acknowledged a complete guarantee of safety is not possible.

Call for Regime Change

Ambassador Danon also called for the Iranian people to rise up and choose their own leader, stating that Israel would work to “create the conditions for them” to do so as reported by Reuters.

Background

Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the new Supreme Leader after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed on the first day of the U.S. And Israel-led war against Iran at the finish of last month The Guardian. The appointment occurred as the conflict entered its tenth day, with continued missile and drone strikes.