Iran’s assembly of experts has reportedly elected a new supreme leader through a majority decision. Ahmad Alamolhoda, a member of the assembly, mentioned that the Secretariat’s head, Hosseini Bushehri, is tasked with officially announcing the selection. This development follows the recent assassination of the former leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in US-Israeli strikes, which triggered retaliatory actions in the Middle East. Iran has continued to target military installations in Israel and US-allied Gulf states, with some attacks expanding to affect civilian areas and energy facilities.
Meanwhile, Israel has conducted multiple strikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut, resulting in casualties and significant injuries. Hundreds of thousands of civilians were evacuated as Israel claimed to be targeting Hezbollah command centers and weapons depots in Beirut. Iran reported a deadly attack on a girls’ school in Minab by the US and Israel, causing a high number of casualties. Subsequently, the US and Israel launched strikes on oil facilities in Tehran, leading to casualties and damage.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning of impending actions in the conflict. Israel has declared its intent to pursue all potential successors of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, emphasizing a strong stance against those involved in the selection process. The assembly of experts, comprising Islamic scholars loyal to the regime, is nearing a consensus on Khamenei’s successor, with efforts focused on finalizing the decision despite minor disagreements.
The group’s member, Ayatollah Mohsen Heidari Alekasir, mentioned selecting a candidate based on Khamenei’s guidance to be “hated by the enemy” rather than praised. This approach aligns with recent remarks from US President Donald Trump, who expressed disapproval of Khamenei’s son as a replacement. Despite challenges posed by current conditions, the assembly remains committed to the selection process and ensuring a smooth transition of leadership.
