Tehran: Public anger is rising in Iran after the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new supreme leader, following the death of his father Ali Khamenei amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Mojtaba Khamenei was chosen by Iran’s Assembly of Experts shortly after the death of Ali Khamenei, who had ruled the country for decades. The decision was made quickly as the country faces military tensions and internal uncertainty.
However, the appointment has sparked criticism and protests from some sections of the Iranian public. Videos shared on social media and reports from inside Iran show people shouting slogans against Mojtaba Khamenei from rooftops and in the streets. Some protesters accused the ruling establishment of turning the leadership of the Islamic Republic into a family succession.
Critics say the decision goes against the ideals of the 1979 Iranian revolution, which had rejected hereditary rule and promised a system based on Islamic governance and public representation. Many reform minded activists and analysts also warned that the move could increase public frustration at a time when the country is already facing economic hardship and political tensions.
Iran has been struggling with rising inflation, unemployment and international sanctions for several years. These problems have led to repeated protests in different parts of the country, and the new leadership change has added to the anger among some citizens.
Despite the criticism, Iran’s powerful institutions have quickly expressed support for the new leader. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other military leaders have pledged loyalty to Mojtaba Khamenei, saying unity is necessary as the country faces external threats.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei and called on the nation to stand together during the current conflict.
International reactions have been mixed. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei and reaffirmed support for Iran. Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump strongly criticized the development and warned that Iran’s leadership would face growing pressure.
The leadership transition comes at a time of intense regional conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Analysts say Mojtaba Khamenei now faces the difficult task of stabilizing the country, managing internal discontent and guiding Iran through a period of political and military uncertainty.