Trump Says US in Talks with Iran, Questions New Supreme Leader’s Status
President Donald Trump stated on Monday, March 23, 2026, that the United States is engaged in discussions with Iranian representatives, but clarified these talks are not with Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Trump too cast doubt on Khamenei’s current status, suggesting he may be injured or even deceased following airstrikes during Operation Epic Fury.
Negotiations and Potential for “Regime Change”
Speaking to reporters before departing Palm Beach International Airport for an event in Memphis, Tennessee, Trump indicated that the US is pursuing a path toward “regime change” in Iran. He warned that if negotiations with Iranian figures prove unsuccessful, the US would continue its bombing campaign. “If the talks fail, we will continue to bomb the hell out of them,” Trump said.
Who is Being Negotiated With?
Trump emphasized that the discussions are not taking place with Mojtaba Khamenei, the recently appointed Supreme Leader. He described the individuals involved as “highly reasonable,” noting that the deaths of numerous high-ranking officials have created a situation where “regime change is automatic.” He stated, “We’ve gotten rid of the leadership of phase one, phase two, and most of phase three. But we’re dealing with the person I believe is the most respected and the leader.”
Questions Surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei’s Status
The President expressed uncertainty about Mojtaba Khamenei’s well-being. “We have not heard from the son,” Trump said. “We don’t know if he’s living.” He added that nobody has seen Khamenei, and “something is going on with him.” Despite this, Trump does not consider him the true leader of Iran, though he acknowledged that “they do have some leaders left.”
Focus on Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf
According to the Jerusalem Post, the focal point of US-Iranian talks is Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament. The Hill reports that Ghalibaf, 64, previously commanded the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps air force and has publicly called for the destruction of the United States and Israel.
Succession and Previous Leadership
Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, was appointed as the new Supreme Leader on March 8, 2026, following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026, during the joint US-Israeli bombing campaign. The New York Post reports that Mojtaba Khamenei is believed to have been wounded in the same strike that killed his father, though the extent of his injuries remains unclear.
Intelligence on Ali Khamenei’s Concerns
U.S. Intelligence, circulated to President Trump and his inner circle, revealed that the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had reservations about his son succeeding him. Sources within the administration told CBS News that the elder Khamenei perceived Mojtaba as lacking intelligence and being unqualified for the role, and was aware of personal issues in his son’s life.
Trump Postpones Military Strikes
Trump announced on Monday that he would delay military strikes on Iranian power plants and energy sites for five days, based on the “tone and content” of recent discussions. He stated that the US and Iran have had “excellent and productive conversations” regarding a potential resolution to hostilities in the Middle East.