Khamenei's Days Are Numbered: Secret Plan by Iranian Elites to Oust Supreme Leader Revealed
In the wake of Saturday night’s U.S. airstrikes on Iran, internal dissent among Iran’s elite has intensified. According to Iranian sources, a group of senior political, military, business, and clerical figures, some related to high-ranking religious authorities, have begun formulating a plan to govern the country without Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, 86, whether due to his death or through sidelining him.
The plan involves forming a transitional leadership council that would negotiate with the United States to end Israeli strikes. Former President Hassan Rouhani, though not currently involved, is reportedly being considered for a key role in the interim leadership.
Military figures tied to the effort have allegedly been in contact with officials from a major Gulf state, seeking support for a shift in Iran’s leadership and direction. A source involved in the discussions stated, “Tehran is full of such rumors. Everyone knows Khamenei’s days are numbered. Even if he stays, he’ll have no real power.”
One optimistic source claimed that the American bombing of Iran’s nuclear sites has “greatly increased the chances” of pushing Khamenei aside. However, others remain cautious, fearing that events could just as easily turn in the regime's favor.
Some in the Iranian elite favor reaching a deal with President Donald Trump, even at the cost of removing Khamenei. Others believe Iran must respond militarily.
Security expert Mostafa Najafi said, “Iran will respond, and the war will escalate.” He acknowledged Iran’s missile and drone capabilities remain intact despite heavy Israeli attacks.
Still, Iran’s options appear limited: Hezbollah has been severely weakened, and pro-Iranian militias in Iraq are unlikely to risk involvement amid national elections.
Expert Mojtaba Dehghani believes Iran may launch a symbolic strike on U.S. bases in Iraq, but warns such a move could lead to escalation, and Khamenei’s fall.
Iran now faces a defining choice: expand the war and risk full-scale conflict, or pursue a historic compromise with the U.S.
Iranian elites are increasingly questioning whether Khamenei is the man to lead either path.