Iran's Assembly of Experts selects a successor to the late Supreme Leader

The Iranian Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body responsible for appointing the Supreme Leader, has reportedly reached a consensus on a candidate to succeed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei was killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026. While officials including Mohsen Heydari and Mohammadmehdi Mirbagheri confirmed that a selection has been made, the individual's identity has not been publicly disclosed. Discussions regarding the successor involve procedural disagreements over whether an in-person meeting is required or if the appointment can be formalized under current security constraints. Speculation frequently points to 56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late leader, though his candidacy faces internal debate. The Israeli military has publicly warned that it will target any individuals involved in the appointment or succession process. Officials noted that the chosen candidate adheres to the late leader's principle that the Supreme Leader should be perceived as an adversary by the country's enemies. The political process remains sensitive due to the ongoing conflict initiated by the February 28 strikes.