In 1979, millions of Iranians protested against the shah’s rule and brought about a revolution that seemed to end the tradition of passing power from father to son. However, this notion has been disproven with the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new Supreme Leader.
Mojtaba, the 50-year-old son of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has taken over the position his father held for nearly four decades until his death in US-Israeli air strikes. This move appears to be a deliberate act of defiance towards American pressure, signaling that Iran’s leadership is committed to its hardline course.
The appointment of Mojtaba was met with an immediate response from state media, which released a documentary showcasing his life and credentials. The regime aims to reassure its core supporters that Mojtaba has the necessary qualifications to rule.
Born in 1969, Mojtaba received religious training like his other brothers but never rose to the rank of Mujtahid, a crucial position for the role of supreme leader. He kept a low profile until now, cultivating close ties with the IRGC and economic networks that prop up the system.
Many believe Mojtaba played a pivotal role in pushing for the election of hardline Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2005. His influence behind the scenes was unmistakable, even without holding senior formal positions.
Mojtaba’s rise sends a message about where Iran’s hardline rulers wish to take the regime, suggesting that the Revolutionary Guards and their allied factions are determined to continue Ali Khamenei’s legacy and policies.
Experts warn that Mojtaba’s appointment may struggle to overcome legitimacy issues at home and address pressing domestic challenges such as unemployment, electricity shortages, and water scarcity. Gary Grappo, former US Ambassador to Oman, describes Mojtaba’s experience as being akin to the chief of staff with hands on intelligence, economic policy, security policy, and all other relevant areas.
The appointment marks a continuation of the regime under Ali Khamenei’s shadow, with Mojtaba succeeding his father on the holiest night of Ramadan. This move has sent shockwaves in Iran, with regime supporters chanting “God’s grace became manifest” as they hailed the new leader.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2026/03/08/world/iranian-supreme-leaders-son-takes-countrys-top-job-cementing-hardliners-grip-on-power