Putin expressed his congratulations regarding the recent appointment of Mojtabi Khamenei to a high position in Iran.
In its message, the Kremlin noted: “Iran is currently facing military aggression, and your work in this responsible position requires significant courage and selflessness. I am confident that you will honorably continue the traditions of your father and unite the Iranian people in the face of severe trials.”
Furthermore, Putin emphasized Russia's "steadfast support" for Tehran and "solidarity with Iranian friends." "Russia remains a reliable partner of the Islamic Republic," he added in his congratulations.
Mojtabi Khamenei, who is 56 years old, is the second son of Ali Khamenei, the previous Supreme Leader of Iran, who was killed on February 28 as a result of an Israeli airstrike conducted in cooperation with the United States. On March 9, Iranian media reported his appointment to the new position. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps expressed its loyalty to him, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian characterized Mojtabi Khamenei's appointment as "an expression of the Islamic nation's desire to strengthen unity."
Earlier, Donald Trump expressed a desire to participate in the selection of the new Supreme Leader of Iran and stated that he would not accept a candidate who would continue the policies of his predecessor. Ahead of Mojtabi Khamenei's election, Trump noted in an interview with ABC News that the new leader "must receive approval from the U.S.," otherwise he "will not have a long reign." Fox News host Brian Kilmeade reported that Trump was "dissatisfied" with the choice of Mojtabi Khamenei.
