Iran War Has Wide Impact on One Iowa College's International Student Body Fighting in the Middle East disrupted student life at Grinnell College, an institution known for its diverse international student population, by forcing the cancellation of a March overseas study trip to Bahrain. The trip, part of a special topics course on African Diaspora in the Indian Ocean, was abruptly canceled due to escalating tensions following the U.S.-led airstrikes on Iran’s capital, Tehran, on February 28, 2026. The attacks, which killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and several senior military officials, triggered a wave of retaliatory strikes across the Persian Gulf, including a missile strike on the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. By March 2, the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain had closed, prompting Grinnell College to cancel the planned trip. The conflict’s ripple effects extended beyond the canceled trip. Daanyal Ahmed, a Qatari student set to graduate, described the situation as unprecedented. His father, a member of the Qatari Air Force, has been receiving daily alerts from the government about the escalating crisis. Ahmed, who has never experienced such warnings before, said his father has stopped attending his regular job due to safety concerns. Meanwhile, Ahmed’s Qatari SIM card continues to receive emergency broadcasts from the Ministry of Interior, instructing residents to stay indoors and avoid sharing information. These alerts mark the first time his parents have encountered such directives. Faculty members also faced disruptions. Shuchi Kapila, a professor and chair of English at Grinnell, had planned to join the Bahrain trip as an additional chaperone to teach a unit on Abdulrazak Gurnah’s novel By the Sea.#iran #qatar #bahrain #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #grinnell_college
Israel Claims Killing of Iran’s Intelligence Minister in Third Assassination in Two Days Israel’s Defense Forces announced on Wednesday that Iran’s Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib had been killed in a “targeted strike” in Tehran, marking the third high-ranking Iranian official to be assassinated in just two days. The IDF stated that Khatib, who was appointed to his position in 2021 by Iran’s late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, played a significant role in the recent protests in Iran, including the arrest and killing of demonstrators and orchestrating terrorist attacks against Israelis and Americans globally. The statement also noted his involvement in suppressing dissent during the Mahsa Amini protests of 2022–2023. Iran has not yet officially commented on the reported death of Khatib. The strike comes after Israel claimed earlier in the week that Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, and the commander of Iran’s Basij forces, Gholamreza Soleimani, had both been killed. Iran’s official judiciary news agency later confirmed Soleimani’s death, while the Supreme National Security Council stated that Larijani was killed alongside his son, Morteza Larijani, and several others. The U.S. and Israeli-led military campaign against Iran entered its 19th day on Wednesday, with Israel launching strikes on Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, as part of its ongoing offensive against Hezbollah, a Tehran-backed militant group. In response, Iran and its allied military factions have carried out retaliatory attacks across the Middle East, escalating fears of a broader regional conflict. Iran has previously retaliated against Israeli and U.S. targets, including attacks on Gulf neighbors and strikes on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route.#ayatollah_ali_khamenei #israel_defense_forces #esmail_khatib #mahsa_aminiprotests #iran_supreme_national_security_council
U.S. intelligence sources have shared with President Trump and his inner circle that Iran’s late supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, expressed concerns about his son, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, assuming leadership. Multiple individuals with knowledge of the matter told CBS News that the elder Khamenei viewed his son as unqualified and intellectually lacking, raising doubts about his readiness to lead. The intelligence analysis also highlighted the father’s awareness of Mojtaba’s personal struggles, including alleged issues in his private life. Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, was chosen as Iran’s new supreme leader last weekend by the country’s council of religious clerics. This followed the death of Ali Khamenei in an Israeli missile strike during the U.S. and Israel’s conflict with Iran. Mojtaba, who was reportedly injured in the attack, has remained within his father’s inner circle. Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other senior officials have been briefed on the intelligence about Mojtaba, though Trump has publicly dismissed the information, claiming he believes Iran is leaderless and that Mojtaba may be dead. The White House asserts that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps now holds significant influence, marking a shift from the theocratic regime established after the 1979 revolution. Spokespersons for the CIA, White House, and vice president declined to comment on the intelligence. Trump recently criticized Mojtaba, calling him a “lightweight” and suggesting the U.S. should have oversight over Iran’s leadership. The federal government has offered up to $10 million for information on Mojtaba’s whereabouts and those of nine other Iranian officials. Mojtaba is Iran’s third supreme leader since the 1979 revolution, succeeding his father and Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.#iran #trump #strait_of_hormuz #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #ayatollah_mojtaba_khamenei
U.S. President Trump: Iran Should Skip World Cup 'for Their Safety' U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday that the Iran national soccer team is "welcome" to compete at the FIFA World Cup in the United States but advised the team not to participate for "their own life and safety." In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, "The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP." The Iranian national team responded on social media, stating that no individual could exclude a country from the World Cup and suggesting the U.S. was unable to provide the necessary security for teams participating in the tournament. The statement emphasized that the World Cup is a historic and international event governed by FIFA, not any individual country. It noted that Iran's national team, having secured a spot through strong performances, was among the first to qualify for the tournament. The statement also criticized the U.S. for lacking the capacity to ensure the safety of participants. Iran, one of 48 teams in the 2026 World Cup, is scheduled to play in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand on June 15, and Belgium on June 21, before concluding group play in Seattle against Egypt on June 26. However, the Iranian sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that Iran cannot participate in the tournament following airstrikes by the United States and Israel. Donyamali reportedly told Iranian state television, "Given that this corrupt government assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.#iran #donald_trump #truth_social #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #fifa
Iran World Cup withdrawal threat leaves FIFA pondering options Iran’s potential withdrawal from the 2026 World Cup has forced FIFA to confront an unprecedented dilemma as the tournament approaches. Iranian Minister of Sport Ahmad Donyamali announced on Wednesday that Iran could not participate in the co-hosted event due to the ongoing conflict triggered by air strikes by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, which killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The statement marked the first clear indication that a nation might withdraw from the global soccer event in modern history. While no official withdrawal has occurred, FIFA is now urgently considering options to replace Iran in the tournament, set to begin in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada in early June. FIFA’s regulations, specifically Article Six, grant the organization discretion to replace a withdrawing team, though no modern precedent exists for such a scenario. Former FIFA Director of Football Regulatory James Kitching noted that the governing body could choose any nation to fill the void, regardless of confederation or regional ties. However, he emphasized that political feasibility would play a significant role in any decision. Kitching also suggested FIFA might avoid imposing disciplinary sanctions on Iran if the withdrawal is linked to the current conflict, given the circumstances. Iran qualified for the World Cup for the fourth consecutive time by topping Group A in the Asian qualifiers last year. A replacement from Asia would likely be the most logical choice, but logistical challenges complicate the process. Iraq, set to compete in the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico this month, faces travel restrictions due to the Middle East conflict, hindering its ability to prepare for its match against Bolivia or Suriname on March 31.#us #iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #fifa #ahmad_donyamali
Mayor of Kansas City Hopes Iran Participates in World Cup, Calls for Inclusivity The mayor of Kansas City, which will host six World Cup matches, expressed hope that Iran will participate in the tournament this summer and emphasized that the city would welcome the team if they were scheduled to play in the region. Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that his country could not take part in the competition, despite qualifying for it. This decision came amid a conflict involving the United States, a co-host nation, and Israel, during which Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Over 1,000 Iranians are believed to have died in the recent conflict. While Donald Trump reportedly said he “didn’t care” if Iran’s national team competed, FIFA president Gianni Infantino noted that U.S. President Trump had told him the team would be welcome. Iran was set to play two group matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle, facing New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. A potential last-32 tie could have occurred in Seattle, Dallas, New York, or Vancouver. Quinton Lucas, the Democratic mayor of Kansas City serving his second term, voiced concerns about Iran’s absence from the tournament. He argued that the World Cup should not be limited to allied nations, stating, “It’s not the Commonwealth Games. It’s not some of the other events that we have worldwide. Instead, it’s supposed to be something that brings everyone in the world together.” Lucas reiterated that all teams should be welcome, saying, “I think we have all said that all should be welcome, all should be able to play. That’s going to be what I continue to make as my message.” He added that if Kansas City were hosting Iran, the city would “absolutely make them welcome” and pledged to support inclusivity in the long term.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #ahmad_donyamali #mayor_of_kansas_city #quinton_lucas
Chicago Cardinal Condemns 'Gamification' of War, Warns Against Desensitization Chicago — March 8, 2026 Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago criticized the growing trend of treating war as a form of entertainment, urging Americans to resist becoming desensitized to its "true costs" and to safeguard their humanity. In a statement, the cardinal condemned what he called the "gamification" of war, which he argued has blurred the line between the battlefield and civilian life. Cupich highlighted how modern technology has reduced the distance between war zones and home, making violence a spectacle rather than a reality. He cited prediction markets, where individuals bet on the outcomes of conflicts, as an example of this trend. The cardinal referenced a recent settlement involving Kalshi, a platform that allegedly failed to pay $54 million to users who wagered on former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stepping down by March 1. Cupich argued that people deriving entertainment from real-world crises reflects a "moral crisis." The cardinal warned that the public's fascination with war as a "spectator sport" or "strategy game" risks eroding humanity. He emphasized that excitement over military power and destruction leads to a loss of moral clarity, urging Americans to preserve their capacity for empathy and compassion. Cupich’s remarks align with broader concerns about the ethical implications of media coverage and technological advancements in warfare. His call to action underscores the tension between modern engagement with conflict and the need to uphold ethical and spiritual values. The statement was part of a feature series on the "War in Iran," reflecting ongoing discussions about the role of religion and morality in global conflicts.#prediction_markets #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #cardinal_blase_j_cupich #kalshi #war_in_iran
Iran Cannot Compete at World Cup, Sports Minister Says The Iranian sports minister claimed Wednesday that the country cannot participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following airstrikes by the United States and Israel. Ahmad Donyamali reportedly told Iranian state television that Iran would not take part in the tournament, stating, "Given that this corrupt government assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup." Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the initial wave of attacks, and his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has since assumed leadership. The nation was scheduled to play two matches in Los Angeles in June—against New Zealand and Belgium—before facing Egypt in Seattle in their final group stage game. However, their participation became uncertain after the U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes on February 28. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed hope that Iran would still compete, citing a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Infantino shared on social media that Trump had assured him Iran would be "welcome" to the tournament. Trump had previously stated he "really didn’t care" if Iran played, but Infantino emphasized that Trump supported the team’s involvement. "The Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," Infantino wrote, adding that the World Cup could "bring people together now more than ever." Despite these assurances, Iranian officials voiced skepticism. Mehdi Taj, Iran’s top soccer official and a vice president of the Asian Football Confederation, said last week, "What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #ahmad_donyamali #mohjtaba_khamenei #gianni_infantino
Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba hurt in strike that killed his father: report The Iranian ambassador to Cyprus revealed on March 11, 2026, that the country’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was injured in an air strike that occurred on the first day of the war on February 28. The attack targeted a compound in Tehran, resulting in the deaths of Mojtaba’s father, former supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as well as his mother and wife. The ambassador, Alireza Salarian, shared the details with The Guardian newspaper, stating that Mojtaba was present during the bombardment and sustained injuries to his legs, hand, and arm. He emphasized that the foreign media had not yet reported the extent of the leader’s injuries, suggesting he is currently hospitalized. The strike, which took place on the initial day of the conflict between Iran and the United States, marked a significant escalation in the war. The attack on the Khamenei family compound in Tehran was described as a critical moment, with the loss of the former supreme leader and his immediate family raising concerns about the stability of Iran’s leadership. Salarian’s account highlights the personal toll of the conflict, as the new supreme leader faces both physical and political challenges in the aftermath. The attack also underscores the intensity of the military operations, with the U.S. and Israel launching strikes that targeted key figures within Iran’s leadership. The deaths of Ayatollah Khamenei and his family, along with Mojtaba’s injuries, have drawn widespread attention, with reports indicating that the incident has deepened the humanitarian and political ramifications of the war.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #tehran #mojtaba_khamenei #alireza_salarian
North Korea ‘Respects’ Iran’s Selection of Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader North Korea has expressed support for Iran’s decision to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader, while reiterating its condemnation of the United States and Israel for their alleged “unlawful military attack” on Iran. The statement was released by the North Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson, who cited the country’s respect for Iran’s right to elect its leader, emphasizing the significance of the choice made by the Iranian people. The spokesperson highlighted the recent election of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli strike on February 28. The North Korean media outlet, Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), reported that Pyongyang views the appointment as a legitimate act of self-determination for Iran. The statement also condemned the “aggression” of the US and Israel, accusing them of destabilizing regional peace and security through their military actions. The spokesperson further criticized the attacks for undermining “the political system and territorial integrity of a country,” calling such actions “unacceptable” and urging the global community to reject them. This comes amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, which began 12 days prior to the statement. North Korea has previously criticized the “gangster-like conduct” of Middle Eastern nations, aligning itself with Iran’s stance against foreign intervention. In addition to the political statements, KCNA reported on North Korea’s military activities. Leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a missile test from the Choe Hyon, the country’s newest and largest naval destroyer. The test, conducted on March 10, was the second such launch from the vessel under Kim’s supervision.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #mojtaba_khamenei #north_korea #kim_jong_un
Iran War Live Updates: Mojtaba Khamenei's Rise as Supreme Leader Sparks Debate Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been named Iran’s new supreme leader following his father’s death in US-Israeli strikes. At 56, he becomes the third supreme leader in the Islamic Republic’s history and the first to ascend from a father’s position since the 1979 revolution. His selection has ignited discussions about the ideological and political differences between him and his father, who ruled for over three decades. For years, Mojtaba Khamenei remained a figure of limited public recognition, operating behind the scenes of Iran’s political machinery. His ascension, however, marked a historic shift as the leadership of the Islamic Republic transitioned from father to son for the first time since the revolution. Crowds in Tehran celebrated the news, with some chanting “Allahu Akbar” while others voiced opposition, reflecting the nation’s divided reaction to the change. The timing of Mojtaba’s rise coincides with heightened tensions in the region, including ongoing conflicts and international pressure on Iran. Analysts are closely examining how his leadership might differ from his father’s, particularly given their contrasting paths to power. While Ali Khamenei built his authority through formal political roles, including a presidency, Mojtaba’s influence grew through covert operations within Iran’s ruling elite. Professor Simon Mabon of Lancaster University highlighted this distinction, noting that Ali Khamenei’s political experience as president gave him a broader public profile, whereas Mojtaba’s power stemmed from his role as a behind-the-scenes strategist.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #islamic_revolutionary_guard_corps #mojtaba_khamenei #lancaster_university
Mojtaba Khamenei Injured: Iran state TV calls new Supreme Leader of Iran Jaanbaz of Ramadan War After Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death in a US-Israeli strike, his son Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed Iran’s new Supreme Leader. However, Mojtaba has not made public appearances or delivered speeches since the appointment, sparking speculation about his condition. Iran’s state television has referred to him as the “Jaanbaz of Ramadan War,” a title that has fueled rumors he may have been injured in the strikes. The designation of Mojtaba as the “Jaanbaz of Ramadan War” appears to be a symbolic gesture, possibly indicating his role in a hypothetical military campaign. This title, combined with his absence from public events, has led to widespread speculation about his health. While no official confirmation has been released, the lack of public statements from Mojtaba has intensified doubts about his ability to assume the leadership role. State media has not provided details about the circumstances of Mojtaba’s injury or his current condition. However, the reference to the “Ramadan War” suggests a potential shift in Iran’s strategic focus, possibly tied to regional conflicts or internal power dynamics. Analysts note that the title may also serve as a rallying cry for supporters, emphasizing Mojtaba’s perceived role in defending Iran’s interests. The absence of Mojtaba from public life has raised questions about the stability of Iran’s leadership transition. While some view his silence as a sign of vulnerability, others argue it could be a calculated move to consolidate power. The situation remains under close scrutiny, with international observers monitoring developments for potential implications on regional tensions.#ayatollah_ali_khamenei #tehran #mojtaba_khamenei #iran_state_tv #ramadan_war
Iran's new leader has never been tested. He now faces an existential battle Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has ascended to the position of Iran's third supreme leader since the 1979 revolution, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike. The new leader, who has never held a prominent public role, now faces a critical challenge as the Islamic Republic confronts a conflict that many view as its most severe in five decades. His rise to power is marked by both continuity and controversy, as he inherits a system under immense pressure from external threats and internal dissent. Khamenei's selection by the Assembly of Experts, a body of 88 Shia clerics, was celebrated by large crowds who chanted "Allahu Akbar" in the streets. Security forces pledged unwavering loyalty to the new leader, with state media depicting him as a figure of command. However, the transition has not been without resistance. Some protesters who had previously criticized his father's leadership now openly oppose Khamenei, chanting "Death to Mojtaba!" in the same streets where they once rallied against his father. The new leader's path to power is deeply personal. He lost his father, mother, wife, and son in the Israeli strike that killed Ayatollah Khamenei. The attack, which occurred during a period of heightened tensions, has left Khamenei with a profound sense of loss and a desire for retribution. His family's suffering has intensified his resolve to lead, even as he faces scrutiny from both domestic and international actors. Khamenei's leadership is also shaped by his long-standing ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful institution that has expanded its influence over Iran's security and economic systems.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #islamic_revolutionary_guard_corps #mojtaba_khamenei
Iowa City Protesters Rally for Peace and the End of War in Iran Nearly 60 people gathered on the University of Iowa’s Pentacrest on March 8, 2026, to protest the ongoing war in Iran. The demonstration, organized by local activists and the Veterans Peace chapter, was part of a broader U.S. movement opposing military actions against the country. Protesters gathered under the banner of “Iowa City Peace Rally Against WAR,” with classic rock anthems like Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son” and Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth” echoing through the crowd. The event drew honks from passersby, underscoring the public’s engagement with the issue. The protest condemned the U.S. and Israeli military strikes that began on February 28, 2026, which targeted Iran’s infrastructure and leadership. The campaign resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with dozens of senior officials, and the destruction of over 1,250 targets within the country. In response, Iran launched retaliatory strikes against U.S. military bases, Israel, and other Middle Eastern nations, killing six American servicemen, including Major Jeffrey O’Brien of Waukee, in an attack on Port Shuaiba in Kuwait. Organizers framed the conflict as an unprovoked escalation that violated both U.S. constitutional principles and international law. Sue Thompson, a protest organizer, criticized the president’s decision to initiate military action against Iran without congressional approval, calling it a direct breach of the War Powers Resolution of 1973. “We are at war,” Thompson stated, “but there is no imminent threat to the United States or its forces. This is illegal and dangerous, and it demands immediate accountability.#ayatollah_ali_khamenei #iowa_city #university_of_iowa #veterans_peace #major_jeffrey_obrien
Iran Announces Mojtaba Khamenei as New Supreme Leader Iranian state television has announced that Mojtaba Khamenei has been selected as the country’s new supreme leader, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The announcement marks a significant shift in Iran’s political landscape, with Mojtaba Khamenei, who is reportedly the son of the current supreme leader, positioned as his successor. The move has been widely reported by Iranian state media, though details about the transition process or public reaction remain unclear. The decision comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Russia reportedly adopting a cautious stance as the conflict involving Iran escalates. Analysts suggest that Russia may be positioning itself to benefit from long-term geopolitical developments, though the exact nature of its involvement remains speculative. Meanwhile, other news highlights include the reopening of a Kansas City airport after an evacuation due to a potential security threat, as well as events such as an Olympian leading a Chinese New Year parade in San Francisco and a device being thrown at an anti-Islam protest in New York City. The article also touches on broader issues, including the U.S. federal judge’s ruling against the Trump administration’s actions to dismantle Voice of America, and the administration’s downplaying of Russia’s alleged intelligence sharing with Iran. These developments underscore the complex interplay of international politics and domestic policy, with implications for global stability and regional alliances.#iran #russia #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #mojtaba_khamenei #kansas_city_airport
Mojtaba Khamenei Likely to Become Iran’s Next Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been reported as the next candidate for the position, according to state media. The announcement came shortly after the death of Ayatollah Khamenei on February 28, 2026, following joint strikes by Israel and the United States. This selection marks a significant shift in Iran’s political landscape, as the country’s establishment has historically resisted hereditary succession from father to son. Mojtaba Khamenei, born on September 6, 1969, in Mashhad, is the second son of Ayatollah Khamenei and Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh. He has five siblings, including three brothers and two sisters. His early life was shaped by his father’s resistance against the Shah of Iran’s monarchy, which culminated in the 1979 revolution and Ayatollah Khamenei’s rise to power. Mojtaba’s childhood was marked by frequent raids and turmoil due to his father’s repeated arrests by the Shah’s secret police, SAVAK. After the revolution, the family relocated to Tehran, where Mojtaba attended Alavi High School. He later studied under religious conservatives in Qom, Iran’s center for Shi’ite theological learning, earning the clerical rank of Hojjatoleslam. He joined the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) shortly after completing his education, forming lasting ties with military figures who later held high-ranking positions. Mojtaba also served in the Habib Battalion during the 1987-88 Iraq-Israel war. Despite his military and clerical background, Mojtaba is not considered a major leader within Iran’s establishment or a prominent religious scholar. He has never held a formal government post and has rarely spoken publicly.#ayatollah_ali_khamenei #mojtaba_khamenei #iranian_revolutionary_guard_corps #mashhad #qom
Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected following the death of his father in attacks by the United States and Israel. The 56-year-old hardline cleric, who survived the strike that killed his father, mother, wife, and one sister, was chosen by Iran’s Assembly of Experts, a 88-member clerical body tasked with selecting the supreme leader. The assembly declared Khamenei’s selection a “decisive vote” and urged Iranians to support him, emphasizing unity under the new leadership. Khamenei, a mid-level cleric (hojatoleslam), has long been a key figure in the inner circle of his father’s regime, maintaining close ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). His ascension signals the continued dominance of hardline factions within Iran’s establishment, raising concerns about the government’s stance on potential negotiations amid ongoing conflict. Unlike his father, who held power for 36 years, Khamenei has never sought public office or been subjected to a formal election, instead operating as a behind-the-scenes influencer. The younger Khamenei’s rise has drawn attention to his role in past crackdowns on dissent. Reformists previously accused him of orchestrating the 2009 Green Movement protests, using IRGC forces to suppress peaceful demonstrators. His involvement in the 2023 protests, which saw thousands killed by state forces, has further cemented his association with the regime’s repressive tactics. The government has blamed these actions on foreign-backed “terrorists” and “rioters,” a narrative consistent with its responses to previous uprisings. Khamenei’s background includes early ties to the IRGC, forged during the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #islamic_revolutionary_guard_corps #mojtaba_khamenei #green_movement
IRGC Quds Force Commander Qaani Executed By Iran On Espionage Charges? On February 28, the United States and Israel launched an attack on Tehran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and numerous high-ranking Iranian military officials. Among those targeted was Esmail Qaani, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force, who had assumed leadership of the elite unit following the 2020 assassination of Qassem Soleimani. Israeli media initially reported that Qaani was among the intended victims but managed to evade capture. However, unverified reports now suggest he may have been arrested by Iranian authorities on suspicion of collaborating with Israel. Some accounts claim he has been executed, though Tehran has not officially confirmed or denied these allegations. Qaani, who has remained absent from public view since the conflict began, is described as having "nine lives" due to his survival through previous crises. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and its regional adversaries, with Qaani's fate potentially signaling a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape.#iran #israel #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #esmail_qaani #quds_force
The Dictator That Sonia Gandhi Wants You To Mourn Was No Friend Of India Sonia Gandhi, writing in The Indian Express on 3 March, urges India to mourn Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, framing his death as a betrayal of non-alignment and a moral failure. Her argument hinges on invoking constitutional principles, historical events, and diplomatic ties to justify India’s supposed obligation to condemn the assassination. However, her piece omits critical details about Khamenei’s violent legacy, including his role in the January 2026 massacre, which resulted in over 30,000 deaths, and the regime’s record of executions, including more than 2,200 in 2025. The article also fails to mention the widespread mourning of Khamenei’s victims, such as the families who celebrated his death in Tehran, or the global condemnation of his regime, including statements from Britain’s Defence Secretary and France. Gandhi’s essay positions Iran as a “civilisational partner” and “strategic ally,” citing events like the 1994 UNHRC episode, Vajpayee’s 2001 Tehran visit, and Article 51 of the Indian Constitution. Yet, the piece ignores Khamenei’s decades-long attacks on India, particularly in Kashmir. Between 1990 and 2024, he orchestrated at least eight attacks, including a 1980 visit to Srinagar where he connected with separatist groups. His influence peaked in 2019, when he condemned India’s abrogation of Article 370, calling it an “ugly act.” In 2020, he tweeted in multiple languages urging India to “prevent the oppression & bullying of Muslims,” a message echoed by Pakistan’s PM Imran Khan. India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded with sharp criticism, using the word “deplore” for the first time.#iran #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #sonia_gandhi #indian_express #unhrc
Days after Israeli and U.S. air strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israel reportedly targeted the building where top Iranian clerics convene to select his successor. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the objective of the conflict is to dismantle the religious regime that has governed Iran for nearly half a century. The attacks have claimed the lives of several potential successors, raising questions about the future leadership of the country. The strikes, which occurred in the aftermath of Khamenei’s assassination, have intensified speculation about the stability of Iran’s political structure. With key figures eliminated, analysts are debating whether the regime will adapt or collapse under pressure. The U.S. and Israel have framed their actions as part of a broader strategy to undermine Iran’s influence in the region, though the effectiveness of such efforts remains uncertain. President Donald Trump, who announced U.S. attacks on Iran, urged Iranian security forces to defect and called for Iranians to seize control of the government. However, internal sources within Iran suggest that such a scenario is unlikely. Despite the violence, the regime has shown resilience, with loyalists maintaining power and continuing to assert control over the country’s nuclear program and regional alliances. NPR correspondents have highlighted the complexity of the situation, noting that while the attacks have disrupted Iran’s leadership, the regime’s deep-rooted institutions and military capabilities may prevent a swift collapse. The focus now shifts to whether the international community can impose lasting changes or if Iran will endure as a resilient, albeit contested, power in the Middle East.#iran #israel #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #benjamin_netanyahu #iranian_clerics
