In a recent post on The Times of Israel, Donald Trump has said he wants to be personally involved in choosing the next leader of Iran, rejecting reports that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, could succeed his father.
Speaking in a phone interview with Axios, Trump dismissed Mojtaba Khamenei as a potential successor and suggested the United States should have influence over who ultimately leads the country. The remarks come amid uncertainty over Iran’s leadership following the recent escalation in conflict involving the United States and Israel.
“They are wasting their time. Khamenei’s son is a lightweight,” Trump said. “I have to be involved in the appointment, like with Delcy [Rodriguez] in Venezuela.”
Trump’s comments suggest a dramatic level of U.S. involvement in Iran’s political future, a move likely to provoke strong reactions internationally and within Iran’s political establishment.
The U.S. president also made clear that he would not accept a successor who continues the policies of the late supreme leader.
“Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me. We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” Trump said.
Mojtaba Khamenei, a mid-ranking cleric with close ties to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is widely seen as one of the leading contenders to replace his father. However, Iranian authorities have not officially announced a successor, and internal consultations are believed to be ongoing.
Trump drew parallels with the situation in Venezuela, where Delcy Rodríguez assumed power earlier this year following a U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of former president Nicolás Maduro.