Iran’s Khamenei picks potential successors to ensure smooth transition in case he dies: Report

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly named three potential successors to avoid an immediate leadership vacuum if Israeli or American forces take him out.

The New York Times has reported that Khamenei aims to ensure a swift transition upon his death, especially in the wake of ongoing Israeli attacks.

The report said, citing sources, that the supreme leader has taken a host of measures to preserve the Islamic Republic since the conflict began earlier this month.

Contrary to earlier speculations, the report said Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric closely aligned with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps and long rumoured to be a front-runner, is not among the three people nominated for the top position.

What does Iran’s Constitution say?

According to Iranian Constitution, the death of the supreme leader prompts a selection process by the Assembly of Experts. This committee consists of 88 members, mostly clerics.

The process has only been used once since the establishment of the theocratic regime in Iran following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, when Khamenei himself was appointed for the role in 1989.

Khamenei remains largely secluded

Khamenei is believed to have taken extraordinary security measures, largely isolating himself in his fortified compound in central Tehran, known as the “Beit Rahbari” or Leader’s House.

He has issued only two pre-recorded public messages, condemning what he termed a “forced war” and pledging Iran’s resolve against surrender.

Khamenei has mostly stopped using electronic communications to speak with his commanders, relying instead on a trusted aide.

Assassination threat looms

Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel’s primary military goal is to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, but the campaign could also “create conditions” for regime change in Iran.

When asked if this includes targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader, Netanyahu responded, “No one is immune.”