Who is Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s new supreme leader?

Who is Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s new supreme leader?

The Iranian Assembly of Experts has elected Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of late supreme leader Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s next supreme leader. This decision underscores the regime’s continued alignment with a confrontational stance toward the United States and Israel. Born on September 8, 1969, in Mashhad, Mojtaba is the second child of Ali Khamenei, who perished in an Israeli strike on February 28, 2020.

Mojtaba, now 56, was named supreme leader by the 88-member Assembly of Experts on March 8, just days into a heated conflict with the US and Israel. Described as an enigmatic figure, he is believed to wield significant influence within Iran’s political framework, particularly through his ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Analysts argue that the IRGC remains a dominant player in shaping the country’s policies and actions.

“They are wasting their time. Khamenei’s son is a lightweight,” said US outlet Axios, quoting former President Donald Trump. Trump had previously criticized the appointment, calling it “unacceptable” and suggesting the new leader would not “last long” without Washington’s approval.

Despite his lack of public office, Mojtaba’s political clout is evident. He gained prominence during the 2005 presidential elections, where he reportedly facilitated the rise of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, a lesser-known IRGC official. This move reportedly weakened former president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, though he remained silent. Mehdi Karroubi, another candidate, accused Mojtaba of manipulating the vote and enabling Ahmadinejad’s victory.

Four years later, Mojtaba faced similar accusations. Ahmadinejad’s re-election sparked widespread protests, with some demonstrators chanting “death to Mojtaba” as they opposed his succession of his father. During this period, reports emerged of his role in suppressing the “green movement,” a pro-reform faction, and allegations of financial misconduct.

According to a 2026 Bloomberg investigation, Mojtaba’s assets include high-value properties in London and Dubai, along with interests in European banking, shipping, and hospitality sectors. These holdings are structured through intermediaries and corporations across multiple jurisdictions, rather than directly under his name. State media, however, depict him as living a modest life, emphasizing his religious background and academic training.

Mojtaba completed secondary education at Alavi School before studying in Qom seminary, where he learned from influential clerics. He spent his early years in Sardasht and Mahabad, cities in Iran’s northwest, where he received foundational education. After graduating high school in 1987, he joined the IRGC, later pursuing advanced Islamic studies in Qom to become a cleric.