Iranian state TV announced Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Iran’s late supreme leader, has been named his successor, early Monday, as the war that started with his father’s killing less than two weeks ago took a dramatic turn.
He had long been considered a contender for the post, even before an Israeli strike killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and despite never being elected or appointed to a government position.
The post-midnight announcement came after signs of a split among Iranian officials as the country awaited a decision by the 88-seat Assembly of Experts, a group of clerics that selects the supreme leader. State TV read a statement saying he was selected based on “strong” votes and urging the nation to unite behind him, and showed people celebrating in public areas of Tehran.