Iran's Assembly of Experts - a body of 88 Islamic clerics - has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the country's new Supreme Leader. He is the 56-year-old son of Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an attack on 28 February 2026.

Mojtaba Khamenei is little known to the public. He has never held a government position, given public speeches or interviews, and only a limited number of photographs of him are available. Nevertheless, diplomatic reports described him as "the power behind the throne."

The new leader is known for his close ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps - the most powerful military force in the country. Iranian officials immediately expressed loyalty to the new leadership, pledging support "to the last drop of blood."

The appointment has been accompanied by attacks on Israel and countries of the Persian Gulf. Oil prices have surged sharply, while Asian financial markets have recorded significant declines.

The international community is monitoring developments with concern. An unknown leadership and strong IRGC ties suggest a possible hardening of Iranian foreign policy at a time when the region is already engulfed in armed conflict.