DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Iran’s late supreme leader, has been named his successor, Iranian state TV announced early Monday, as the war that began with his father’s killing less than two weeks ago took a dramatic turn.
The younger Khamenei had long been considered a contender for the post, even before an Israeli strike killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and despite never being elected or appointed to a government position.
The post-midnight announcement came after signs of a rift among Iranian officials as the country awaited a decision by the 88-seat Assembly of Experts, a group of clerics that selects the supreme leader. State TV read a statement saying he was selected based on “strong” votes and urging the nation to unite behind him, and showed people celebrating in public areas of Tehran.
There has been only one other transfer of power in the office of supreme leader since the Islamic Revolution almost a half-century ago.