Who will replace Khamenei? Mojtaba Khamenei emerges in Iran succession debate

Key Highlights

• In Iran’s theocratic system, the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority over the state, armed forces and the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
• The successor is appointed by the 88-member Assembly of Experts — a body of Shiite clerics elected every eight years whose candidates are vetted by the Guardian Council.
• Also read | ‘Erased from history’: Exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi declares end of the Islamic Republic Iranian law requires the assembly to select a new leader “as soon as possible.” Until then, a temporary leadership council assumes the role.
• According to state media, the council would include President Masoud Pezeshkian, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei and a Guardian Council jurist chosen by the Expediency Council.
• Why is Mojtaba Khamenei being discussed?