According to available data, 88 Shia theologians, who are part of the Assembly of Experts, made the decision regarding the new successor to the slain Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, they chose not to reveal the name of the elected candidate.
One of the council members hinted at the possibility of appointing Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, to this position. The AFP agency also reports this, citing sources. Earlier, on March 3, anonymous sources in Iran informed the DW publication about his potential candidacy.
Assembly member Mohsen Heydari commented on the voting results, noting: "The Great Satan also mentioned the choice made." Apparently, he was referring to U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated in an interview with Axios on March 5 about his opposition to Mojtaba Khamenei coming to power and his intention to participate in the selection of a new leader.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces reiterated on March 8 that they will pursue anyone who takes Ali Khamenei's place as the supreme leader of Iran.
It should be noted that the supreme leader of Iran holds the position for life.
