Is the man slated to lead Iran even alive? Rumors regarding the fate of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ali Khamenei and a key figure in the regime’s succession, have reached a fever pitch.
Maariv explains:
According to Dr. Tamar Eilam Gindin, a researcher at Haifa University and expert on Iranian affairs, the silence surrounding his status since late February has led many to believe the regime is operating under a "disappearing leader" model.
The "Hidden Leader" Strategy
Dr. Gindin noted that leaks regarding Mojtaba's health have been inconsistent, but one chilling detail stands out: a ceremony in a small Iranian town honoring war "martyrs" reportedly included his photograph among the fallen.
"There is a group (it’s unclear who exactly) that issues statements in Mojtaba’s name and uses his persona to legitimize their decisions," Gindin explained, comparing the situation to the Shiite concept of the "Hidden Imam." She suggests that while Mojtaba may be physically absent, his name remains the glue for a "Deep State" that is increasingly disconnected from official government channels.
A Regime Divided: "Suicidal" Aggression
The expert highlighted a dangerous lack of coordination within Iran's power centers, particularly regarding recent escalations in the Persian Gulf:
- The IRGC’s Rogue Actions: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is reportedly acting on its own initiative. President Masoud Pezeshkian was reportedly unaware of recent attacks on Gulf shipping and is said to be "furious" over the lack of coordination.
- Ideology Over Survival: Gindin described the regime's current strategy as "suicidal," noting that for the leadership, a "tactical loss is seen as a spiritual victory."
- The Weakest Are the Most Cruel: As the regime’s foundations crumble, internal repression has intensified. Gindin cited reports of the judiciary accelerating the time from sentencing to execution from two years down to just four months.
The Path to Collapse
Despite the brutal crackdown, Gindin believes the Iranian public is waiting for a clear signal to rise. She pointed to the exiled Crown Prince (Reza Pahlavi) as the only figure capable of unifying the diverse opposition factions.
"The Islamic Republic is on its last legs; everyone is against everyone," she concluded. "The call to action must come from the Prince. He is the figure people can unite around, and his strategic leadership will be the key to moving the struggle back into the hands of the Iranian people."
Maariv contributed to this article.
