Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has reportedly been chosen as his father’s successor during a secretive meeting of the Assembly of Experts, according to Israeli media outlet Ynet News, which cited a report by Iran International.
The secret meeting, held on September 26, was convened at the request of the 85-year-old leader, who is reportedly battling health issues. The 60-member assembly allegedly faced significant pressure to reach a unanimous decision, including threats from Khamenei and his representatives.
Mojtaba Khamenei’s growing influence within the regime has been evident over the past two years. While he has rarely appeared in public, he is recognized for his alleged role in suppressing the 2009 post-election protests. In 2021, he was granted the title of ayatollah, fulfilling the constitutional requirements for the role of Supreme Leader.
The Iran International report suggests the decision was kept secret to avoid public backlash. “The assembly resolved to maintain maximum secrecy over the decision due to fears of widespread public protests,” it stated, adding that members were warned of severe consequences for any leaks.
The reported decision highlights the regime’s attempts to strengthen its control as it faces increasing internal and external pressures. The Iranian government has yet to respond to these claims.
Sources cited in the report claim Khamenei plans to transfer power to his son while still alive to ensure a smooth transition and avoid opposition.
Numerous social media posts circulated on Saturday, alleging that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has fallen into a coma. These claims gained traction shortly after a report by The New York Times in October stated that Khamenei is “seriously ill.” However, there has been no official confirmation or statement from Iranian authorities regarding any further decline in his health.