Photo credit: Khamenei / X

The country’s powerful clerical body, the Assembly of Experts, has officially appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the third Supreme Leader of the Iran. His appointment comes after the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who had led the Islamic Republic for more than three decades.

According to the announcement, the decision was made under Article 108 of the Iranian Constitution, with members of the Assembly of Experts introducing Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new top leader.

The leadership change comes at a tense moment for Iran. Reports said Ali Khamenei was killed on the first day of the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran. His death immediately triggered a major political transition in the country.

With the appointment, Mojtaba Khamenei becomes the third person to hold the powerful position of Supreme Leader since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979. The role carries immense authority, overseeing Iran’s political, military, and religious leadership.

Before his appointment, Mojtaba Khamenei was known as an influential cleric who largely stayed out of the public spotlight but was believed to have strong influence within Iran’s political and religious circles.

Now at the helm, he is expected to guide the country during a critical period as tensions and conflict continue to shape the region’s political landscape.