The Islamic Republic of Iran has reached out to the United States regarding negotiations, as confirmed by the White House on Sunday. Following the recent death of Khamenei in an Israeli airstrike, discussions about his potential successors are underway, which interestingly includes his son and former adviser.
This event marks only the second time since the 1979 establishment of the Islamic Republic that a new supreme leader will be elected, back when the strongly anti-American Ruhollah Khomeini led the country.
The candidates for Khamenei’s position are primarily hardliners with anti-Western viewpoints, who, like Khamenei, are focused on destroying Israel and furthering the Islamic revolution.
Ali Larijani
One notable figure in the running is Ali Larijani, a regime ally and the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. He is believed to have executed Khamenei’s orders during the massacre of over 30,000 Iranians who protested against the regime in January. In a recent statement, he proclaimed, “We will make the Zionist criminals and the despicable American people regret it,” suggesting a military response against perceived oppressors.
The U.S. Treasury Department labeled Larijani as one of the “architects of the Iranian regime’s brutal crackdown on peaceful demonstrators.” Their assertion emphasized that he was an early advocate for violence against the populace’s legitimate demands.
Interestingly, some experts express skepticism regarding Larijani’s chances of becoming the next supreme leader, with questions about whether he possesses sufficient clerical influence. Beni Sabti, an authority on Iran, pointed out that although Larijani is not a cleric, he may influence others who are, mentioning his brother Mohammad Javad Larijani, a former attorney general.
Mohammad Javad Larijani
Mohammad Javad Larijani has also been linked to calls for Israel’s destruction and has denied the Holocaust. Previously, he was known for his support for stoning as a punishment for adultery, claiming it protects “family values.” His close ties with the late Khamenei add to the concern surrounding his potential rise.
Mojataba Khamenei
Mojataba Khamenei, Khamenei’s second son, is another candidate closely associated with the Revolutionary Guards. His connection to Iranian military leaders aims to continue his father’s legacy. He was sanctioned by the Trump administration back in 2019.
Reports indicate that the Revolutionary Guards are actively seeking a successor for Khamenei. Iran does have a framework in place for this transition, with the Council of Experts—consisting of 88 senior clerics—tasked with selecting the next leader.
Alireza Alafi
Alireza Alafi, a cleric and member of the leadership council, is being considered as well. His statements about punishing protesters demonstrate a hardline stance that resonates with the current regime’s objectives.
Ayatollah Mohammad Mehdi Mirbagheri
Ayatollah Mohammad Mehdi Mirbagheri is also mentioned as a potential successor. His rhetoric includes a commitment to combating “infidels,” depicting Iran’s ideological mission as one of struggle and sacrifice.
Hassan Khomeini
Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of the first supreme leader, is thought to be a younger, more progressive option, given his role as custodian of Khomeini’s Mausoleum.
Meanwhile, analysts express concern that external influences, like those from Israel and the U.S., shouldn’t dictate Iran’s leadership choices. Sabti, an Iranian analyst, suggested that preventing the emergence of a new leader should be prioritized, advocating for potential revolutionary change within Iran to alter its current path.
The atmosphere remains tense as observers note Iran’s ongoing support for regional destabilization, with calls for a re-evaluation of its leadership being a pressing issue in many discussions.
