Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? The New Supreme Leader Taking Charge; Iran Slams Trump: "Future Won't Be Decided by Epstein's Friends"

Official: Mojtaba Khamenei Appointed as Iran’s New Supreme Leader; Tehran Mocks Trump’s Interference

TEHRAN — In a historic move that has sent shockwaves across the globe, Iranian State TV officially announced on Monday morning that Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen as the country's new Supreme Leader. This confirmation marks the end of weeks of speculation following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The Official Announcement

Early Monday, Iranian state media broke the news that the Assembly of Experts has finalized the succession. Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of the late leader, will now hold the highest authority in the Islamic Republic.

Interestingly, Mojtaba has never held an elected or formal government office before this. However, he has long been considered the most powerful figure behind the scenes, and his appointment ensures that the "Khamenei" legacy continues to guide the nation.

Iran Mocks Trump Over "Epstein Gang" Comments

The appointment comes at a time of extreme tension between Tehran and Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that Iran should not choose a new leader without his involvement.

In a sharp and viral response, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, mocked the U.S. President. Qalibaf stated that Iran’s future would be decided by the Iranian people, not by "Jeffrey Epstein’s gang."

This comment refers to the recent release of secret documents in the U.S. regarding Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The documents reportedly mention several high-profile figures, including Donald Trump. Iranian officials are using these reports to challenge the moral authority of the U.S. government.

Defying Israeli Threats

The transition of power is happening while Iran is practically at war. Israel had previously issued a stern warning, threatening to "eliminate" whoever was chosen to succeed the late Ayatollah. Despite these threats and the ongoing military strikes against Iranian fuel depots and military offices, Tehran has moved forward with the appointment, signaling that they will not back down.

The Legacy of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

The new leader, Mojtaba, takes over following the death of his father on February 28, 2026, during a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation.

35 Years of Power: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had ruled Iran since 1989, taking over after the death of the revolution’s founder, Ruhollah Khomeini.

Revolutionary Roots: The elder Khamenei was a key figure in the 1979 Islamic Revolution and served as President for eight years before becoming the Supreme Leader.

Why Mojtaba? Understanding the Rules

Under Iran’s Islamic law, the Supreme Leader must hold the title of Ayatollah. This means the position is not just political, but deeply religious. Mojtaba Khamenei has spent years in advanced Islamic studies to qualify for this role.

As the Supreme Leader, Mojtaba will have total control over the military, the legal system, and all major state decisions. For a 10-year-old child to understand: he is now the "Ultimate Boss" of the country, and his word is the final law.

A Tense Future

The world is now watching how the young Khamenei will lead. Will he be as strict as his father? How will he respond to the ongoing strikes from Israel? With President Trump refusing to recognize the new leadership and Israel continuing its "surprise" military plans, the Middle East remains a very volatile region.