Putin Backs Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s New Supreme Leader Amid "Aggressive Assault"
Vladimir Putin congratulates Mojtaba Khamenei on succeeding his father as Iran’s Supreme Leader. Putin reaffirmed Russia's "unwavering support" for Tehran as the IRGC and Army swear allegiance to the new ruler.
One day after the final announcement of Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment as Iran's next Supreme Leader, the Kremlin announced today (Monday) that Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on his selection for the role.
"I am confident that you will continue your father's work with honor and unite the Iranian people during this challenging period," Putin stated. "For my part, I wish to reaffirm our unwavering support for Tehran and our solidarity with our Iranian friends."
Putin further claimed: "As Iran faces aggressive assault, your steps in this important position will require courage and selflessness."
Iranian authorities finalized the confirmation overnight that Sayyid Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and long considered his likely successor, has been officially crowned as the Supreme Leader of Iran. Both the Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and the Iranian Army issued congratulatory messages on his coronation, announcing their recognition of his supreme authority over the command of Iran’s Armed Forces.
Background on the New Leader
Mojtaba, the 56-year-old second son of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei (who was eliminated in the first wave of strikes at the start of the war), has always been a key figure in his father's rule. He served as a central power broker in the elder Khamenei's office while remaining a largely mysterious figure.
Despite his central status and avoidance of the spotlight, Mojtaba faced various tensions over the years with Iranian authorities and, according to reports, even with his father. These tensions likely contributed, at least in part, to the prolonged deliberation in Iran before his official recognition as successor.