US President Donald Trump has said the United States should have a role in deciding who becomes Iran’s next supreme leader, rejecting the possible succession of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Iran’s former leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Speaking in an interview, Trump described Mojtaba Khamenei as a “lightweight” and said he would not be an appropriate leader for Iran. He added that Washington should be involved in shaping Iran’s future leadership to ensure stability in the region.
The comments come at a time when Iran is facing uncertainty over its leadership following recent developments that have raised questions about who will succeed Ali Khamenei. Mojtaba Khamenei has been widely discussed as a possible successor, though his potential rise has triggered debate in Iran about the possibility of a hereditary transfer of power.
Trump said the United States would prefer a leader in Iran who is willing to reduce tensions and move toward more peaceful relations with the international community. He warned that if a hardline leader similar to the previous leadership comes to power, it could lead to renewed confrontation with Washington.
Iran’s political system normally decides the supreme leader through its internal institutions, particularly the Assembly of Experts, which is responsible for selecting the country’s top authority.
Trump’s remarks have drawn attention globally because Iran traditionally rejects any foreign involvement in its domestic political process. Analysts say such comments could add to existing tensions between Washington and Tehran during a period of heightened instability in the Middle East.
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