New Supreme Leader Emerges as Iran Prepares Leadership Transition

* Plans for slain leader’s funeral postponed

* New leader is a target, Israel warns

Iran is preparing to appoint a new Supreme Leader following the killing of its longtime ruler in an Israeli airstrike, with the son of the late leader emerging as a leading contender for the powerful position.

Iranian officials say the Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting the country’s Supreme Leader, is expected to announce its decision soon. Candidates have reportedly already been identified, although their names have not been officially released.

Among the frontrunners is Mojtaba Khamenei, a senior figure within Iran’s security establishment and the son of the slain leader. His selection would signal continuity and reinforce the influence of hardline factions within the Islamic Republic.

Another possible candidate is Hassan Khomeini, grandson of the founder of the Islamic Republic, who is associated with reformist elements that have been sidelined in recent years.

Plans for a public funeral for the slain leader have been postponed amid continued airstrikes in Tehran. Sources said Mojtaba Khamenei was not in the capital when the attack that killed his father destroyed the leader’s compound.

The leadership transition comes as Iran faces sustained military pressure from the United States and Israel. Both countries have continued round-the-clock strikes against Iranian targets, with U.S. officials claiming significant damage has been inflicted on Iran’s military capabilities, including much of its navy.

Despite internal dissatisfaction with the government, many Iranians say the ongoing bombardment has made public protests unlikely as civilians focus on survival and safety.

Israel has warned that whoever emerges as Iran’s next Supreme Leader will remain a target, underscoring the uncertain and dangerous environment in which the new leadership will take power.