U.S. Navy to escort oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz when possible, Bessent says Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed on Thursday that the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as "militarily possible," during an interview with Sky News. Bessent emphasized that this measure was part of the administration’s long-term planning, stating that the possibility of naval escorts—either by the U.S. or an international coalition—had been considered from the outset. The decision comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, declaring that the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed as a "tool to pressure the enemy." Khamenei’s remarks underscore the strategic significance of the waterway, which is a critical artery for global oil shipments. Bessent, however, asserted that the U.S. has "complete control of the skies" and that Iran’s naval forces are "literally and figuratively sunk," reflecting the administration’s confidence in its military superiority. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, meanwhile, told CNBC that the Navy is not yet prepared to escort tankers through the strait. Wright acknowledged that the operation "will happen relatively soon" but emphasized that current military resources are focused on dismantling Iran’s offensive capabilities and its industrial infrastructure. This highlights a potential gap between the administration’s strategic goals and the operational readiness of its forces. President Donald Trump had previously called on oil company CEOs to send tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, framing the move as a necessary step in countering Iran.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #mojtaba_khamenei #chubb #treasury_secretary_scott_bessent
Explosions Rock Tehran During Quds Day Protests Amid Israeli Warnings A massive explosion struck Tehran’s Ferdowsi Square on Friday during pro-government demonstrations marking Quds Day, according to Tasnim news agency. The blast, which sent a plume of gray smoke into the air, occurred as protesters chanted anti-Israel and anti-American slogans, including "Death to Israel!" and "Death to America!" The incident unfolded amid heightened tensions following Israel’s prior warnings about potential military operations in the area. Israeli military officials had issued a warning in Farsi on their X account, stating they would "conduct operations" in the region later that day. The message emphasized the danger to civilians, urging people to avoid the area. However, the internet in Iran was largely restricted, limiting how widely the warning could be disseminated. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had called for large-scale participation in Quds Day rallies the day before, framing the event as a symbol of national unity and resistance against Israel and the United States. In his message, he emphasized the importance of public presence during the demonstrations, urging citizens to demonstrate "enemy-crushing" solidarity. The Quds Day protests, held annually on the last Friday of Ramadan, are a longstanding pro-Palestinian event established in 1979 by Iran’s first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The demonstrations typically draw thousands of supporters who gather to express solidarity with Palestinians and condemn Israeli policies. U.S. President Donald Trump made inflammatory remarks about Iran during the crisis, claiming that "Iran's Navy is gone, their Air Force is no longer... and their leaders have been wiped from the face of the earth.#tehran #mojtaba_khamenei #ferdowsi_square #quds_day #israeli_military
Israel's 'Huge Mistake' Amid Iran War: Did Tel Aviv Attack North Korea's Embassy in Tehran? Viral social media claims alleging that Israeli missiles struck North Korea’s embassy in Tehran have been debunked as false. Reports circulating on platforms like X and Instagram suggest that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un issued a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling the alleged attack a "huge mistake." However, no credible evidence supports the claim that the embassy was targeted. The controversy emerged amid ongoing tensions in the Iran war, which has persisted for 13 days. While Tehran has engaged in attacks against multiple nations, including regional adversaries, there are no official confirmations of an Israeli strike on North Korea’s diplomatic mission in Iran. The alleged incident has fueled speculation, but fact-checking efforts have found no verifiable proof of such an attack. North Korea’s foreign ministry addressed the situation, stating that it condemned U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran as "illegal aggression." The statement emphasized concerns over regional instability and the impact of military actions on international security. The country expressed support for Iran’s newly elected Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following the assassination of the previous leader. The North Korean government reiterated its stance in a report by state media KCNA, calling for an end to the violence and highlighting the need for regional peace. While the country criticized the U.S. and Israel for their involvement in the conflict, it did not directly link its condemnation to the alleged embassy strike. The confusion surrounding the incident underscores the challenges of verifying information during periods of heightened geopolitical tension.#iran #benjamin_netanyahu #mojtaba_khamenei #north_korea #kim_jong_un
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
Trump at risk from oil-price rollercoaster amid Iran war The war in Iran sent financial markets and energy prices on a rollercoaster ride on Monday, highlighting the political challenges for President Trump in a volatile economic environment. Oil prices surged by nearly 20 percent late Sunday due to fears over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway off Iran’s southern coast. However, by late Monday afternoon, the price had dropped by around 7 percent, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the crisis. The sharp fluctuations in oil and financial markets underscored the complex interplay between military tensions and economic stability. On Sunday night, futures markets predicted a 900-point drop for the Dow Jones Industrial Average, but the index closed Monday up by nearly 250 points. Analysts attributed these swings to a mix of political and military factors, including concerns over Iran’s elevation of Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader. Khamenei, the son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was seen as a symbol of Iran’s defiance against U.S. and Israeli pressures. President Trump’s comments further fueled uncertainty. During a phone interview with CBS News, he claimed the war in Iran was “very complete” and that the U.S. attack had advanced far beyond initial estimates of a four- to five-week conflict. Trump, who was in Florida for a GOP retreat, stated, “We’ve already won in many ways but we haven’t won enough.” When pressed for clarity, he replied, “You could say both.” These remarks came amid a backdrop of poor economic sentiment toward Trump. A recent Economist/YouGov poll showed only 31 percent of Americans approved of his handling of inflation, with 59 percent disapproving. His overall economic approval rating was similarly low, at 34 percent. Compounding these issues, the U.S.#iran #trump #strait_of_hormuz #mojtaba_khamenei #chris_wright
Zahra Haddad-Adel, Wife of Iran's New Supreme Leader, Killed in US-Israel Strike Zahra Haddad-Adel, the wife of Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly elected supreme leader, was killed in a joint US-Israel strike on Iran nearly nine days prior. The attack targeted the Iranian leadership, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking officials, including Zahra. She was married to Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed the role of supreme leader following the passing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Zahra’s family background is deeply rooted in Iran’s political landscape, with her father, Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel, a prominent conservative politician and former Parliament Speaker. Zahra was the daughter of Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel and Tayyebeh Mahrouzadeh. She had four siblings, including three sisters and a brother. Her marriage to Mojtaba Khamenei in 1999 was described as a strategic alliance between the supreme leadership and a conservative technocratic faction within Iran’s political establishment. This union solidified ties between two influential conservative families, positioning Zahra at the intersection of Iran’s religious and political elite. Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel played a significant role in shaping Iran’s conservative movement. He served in multiple government roles, including minister of culture and Islamic guidance from 1979 and deputy education minister from 1982 to 1993. He was also a key advisor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and later became the executive director of the Encyclopaedia Islamica Foundation. His contributions extended to education, as he helped establish the national Scientific Olympiads in Iran. Despite her family’s prominence, Zahra maintained a private life, with minimal public coverage of her activities.#mojtaba_khamenei #zahra_haddad_adel #gholam_ali_haddad_adel #tayyebeh_mahrouzadeh #encyclopaedia_islamica_foundation
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
Trump Threatens To Take Over Strait Of Hormuz If Iran Tries "Anything Cute" The United States president, Donald Trump, has warned that Iran will face severe consequences if it continues to attack American and Israeli interests in the Middle East, including a potential takeover of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The threat came amid ongoing tensions following Iran's attacks on oil infrastructure and merchant ships in the region, which have disrupted global oil shipments. The strait, through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil flows, has seen a significant reduction in tanker traffic due to Iranian drone and missile strikes. Oil prices briefly spiked to their highest level since 2022 after Iran announced the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader. However, prices later declined as market confidence shifted toward the possibility of a swift resolution to the conflict. Trump claimed that Iran’s military capabilities have been severely weakened by U.S. strikes targeting over 5,000 Iranian assets, asserting that the country now lacks a functional navy, air force, or effective missile systems. “They’ve got no communications, no air force, their missiles are down to a scatter,” Trump stated during a CBS News interview. The president also emphasized that Iran’s attacks on the Strait of Hormuz would result in a “twenty times harder” response from the U.S. “If they do anything bad, that would be the end of Iran, and you’d never hear the name again,” he added, claiming the waterway remains open and ships continue to transit through it. Iran’s attacks have caused significant disruptions, including the deaths of at least seven mariners in attacks on commercial vessels near the strait, according to the International Maritime Organisation.#iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mojtaba_khamenei #vladimir_putin
Iranians rally to welcome Mojtaba Khamenei as new supreme leader Some Iranians gathered in the heart of Tehran to express their backing for Mojtaba Khamenei, who has been officially designated as the country’s new supreme leader. The demonstration, which took place in the city’s central district, reflected a mix of public enthusiasm and political solidarity. Participants waved flags bearing the national emblem and chanted slogans in support of Khamenei, a prominent figure within Iran’s clerical establishment. The event unfolded amid heightened tensions in the region, with ongoing conflicts involving neighboring states and global powers. The transition of power to Khamenei, a seasoned cleric with deep ties to Iran’s revolutionary leadership, has sparked widespread speculation about the direction of the country’s policies. Analysts note that his appointment underscores the enduring influence of conservative factions within the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, the public display of support highlights the complex interplay between state authority and grassroots sentiment in Iran. Khamenei’s rise to the position of supreme leader follows a period of political maneuvering and internal power struggles within the ruling clerical elite. His leadership is expected to shape key decisions on domestic governance, regional diplomacy, and Iran’s stance on international issues. The rally in Tehran serves as a visible manifestation of the nation’s collective response to this pivotal moment in its political history. The event also occurred against a backdrop of escalating regional tensions, including ongoing hostilities between Iran and its adversaries. As the new leader assumes his role, the focus will likely shift to addressing both internal challenges and external pressures.#iran #tehran #mojtaba_khamenei #iranian_people #clerical_elite
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
Iran-Israel War: New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Loses Four Family Members in Airstrikes Mojtaba Khamenei, the newly appointed Supreme Leader of Iran, has lost at least four immediate family members in recent airstrikes attributed to Israel and the United States, according to Iranian media reports. His father, Ali Khamenei, who served as the Supreme Leader until his death, was the first family member to perish in the conflict. Additional casualties include his wife, Zahra Haddad-Adel, and one of his two sons, with his daughter also reported killed. Some accounts suggest the death toll among his relatives could reach eight, including a sister, nephew, niece, and brother-in-law, though these claims remain unverified. The attacks, which began over two weeks ago, targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, escalating tensions during a critical leadership transition. Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Supreme Leader, ascended to power after an 88-member clerical body voted for his candidacy. His father’s death accelerated a succession process that had been in motion for years, with Mojtaba consolidating influence through ties to the Revolutionary Guards and parallel business networks. International reactions to his leadership have been mixed. China and Russia have expressed support for Mojtaba, while U.S. President Donald Trump has questioned his legitimacy, stating, “If he doesn’t get approval from us, he’s not going to last long.” Israel, which had threatened to strike whoever was chosen as Supreme Leader, did not issue further warnings after the announcement. The war shows no signs of slowing, with Israel launching fresh strikes on central Iran and targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut. Iran’s UN ambassador reported 1,332 civilian deaths and thousands of injuries, while the U.S.#iran #israel #mojtaba_khamenei #ali_khamenei #zahra_haddad_adel
Trump slams Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment as Iran projects defiance Donald Trump expressed frustration over the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new supreme leader, calling the decision a mistake and warning that the younger Khamenei may not last in power. The U.S. president had previously criticized the choice, arguing that Iran’s leadership should align with Washington’s demands, and now he reiterated his dissatisfaction with the outcome. The appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, followed a vote by Iran’s Assembly of Experts. The move was seen as a defiant act against the United States, which had pressured Iran to replace Ali Khamenei with a leader more willing to negotiate. Trump accused Iran of making a “big mistake” and suggested the new leader might face a similar fate as his father, who was killed in a U.S.-Israeli attack in February. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, echoed the president’s concerns, stating that Mojtaba Khamenei was “not the change” the U.S. sought. Graham claimed the new leader would eventually meet the same end as his father, whom he labeled “one of the most evil men on the planet.” Pro-Israel commentator Mark Levin, who had previously called for the assassination of Ali Khamenei, shifted his focus to Mojtaba, urging supporters to “get the boy Khamenei.” The conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran escalated dramatically in February, with a joint attack on Iran killing Ali Khamenei and several top officials. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes against Israel and U.S. military targets in the Middle East, disrupting oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The war has also drawn Hezbollah into the conflict, sparking a broader regional crisis.#donald_trump #mojtaba_khamenei #ali_khamenei #lindsey_graham #mark_levin
War with Iran 'very far ahead of schedule,' US President Donald Trump tells journalists US President Donald Trump claimed the war with Iran is "very far ahead of schedule" during a press conference in Florida, marking his first opportunity to address journalists since the conflict began 10 days ago. Trump asserted that Iran's military capabilities have been severely diminished, stating the country now has "no navy, no communications, no air force" and its missile and drone programs are "down to a scatter." He emphasized that Iran's forces are "nothing left in a military sense," signaling a significant shift in the conflict's trajectory. The war, which began with joint US-Israeli operations targeting Iran's missile infrastructure, naval assets, and regional influence, has seen Iran retaliate with persistent attacks on Israel and Gulf states. These strikes have contributed to a sharp rise in global energy prices, with crude oil surging over 15% from previous levels. Meanwhile, Iran announced the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as its new supreme leader, a move that has intensified regional tensions. In a separate development, a powerful explosion and jet activity were reported overhead in Tehran late Monday, though details remain unclear. Trump also engaged in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the Kremlin. The conversation, described as "frank and businesslike," focused on potential diplomatic solutions to the conflict, with Putin reportedly proposing ideas for a "quick political and diplomatic settlement." The discussion also touched on Venezuela and its impact on the global oil market.#iran #us_president_donald_trump #mojtaba_khamenei #iranian_supreme_leader #pope_leo_xiv
Kai Trump Faces Backlash for Using Secret Service in Grocery Store Vlog Kai Trump, the granddaughter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has drawn widespread criticism after using her family’s Secret Service protection during a YouTube vlog at an upscale grocery store. The video, which appeared to show her shopping at Erewhon, a high-end retail chain, sparked outrage online, with many accusing her of misusing public funds. Critics argued that the use of federal agents for personal activities violates taxpayer expectations and highlights the perceived excesses of the Trump family. Social media users expressed frustration over the incident, with comments like, “Our tax dollars are going towards her bringing secret service agents to vlog at Erewhon buying overpriced groceries.” Others linked the event to broader criticisms of the Trump family, including allegations that her grandfather’s policies have contributed to economic hardship. One user wrote, “While American service members die in her grandfather’s war, Kai Trump brags about making her taxpayer-funded Secret Service follow her around while she shops.” The backlash intensified as some viewers compared the situation to the broader political tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The vlog coincided with ongoing news about Iran’s military actions against Israel, including missile strikes attributed to the country’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Critics suggested that the Trump family’s public behavior, including Kai’s actions, reflects a disconnect from the struggles of ordinary Americans. The controversy also reignited debates about the role of the Secret Service and the public’s perception of its use. Some users called for reforms, with one comment stating, “I can’t wait until the next administration cuts off secret service to every Trump.#donald_trump #mojtaba_khamenei #kai_trump #secret_service #erewhon
Students, veterans, politicians rally on Pentacrest over Iran war More than 40 individuals, including Iowa City residents and University of Iowa students, gathered on the Pentacrest on March 8 to protest U.S. military involvement in Iran. The demonstration followed a prolonged conflict that began in late February, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iranian targets, citing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on U.S. bases and allied nations in the Middle East, including Israel and several Gulf states. At least six U.S. service members were killed in an Iranian drone strike on a base in Kuwait on March 1, with two of the casualties from Iowa. Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, as its new supreme leader, according to NBC News. Protesters outside the Old Capitol carried posters demanding an end to the conflict, with slogans such as “Stop Israel Before WW3” and “Give peace a chance.” American and Palestinian flags waved alongside a dove emblem, as demonstrators called for an end to the war. For many attendees, the protest evoked memories of past anti-war movements, including the Vietnam War. Allan Hogue, a Vietnam War veteran, reflected on his military experience and warned that continued public opposition could prevent a similarly prolonged conflict. “We do not need an unwinnable, forever war,” Hogue said. “We lost the war, and we left in disgrace. We learned nothing.” Sue Thompson, who organizes protests with Veterans for Peace, a nonprofit advocating nonviolent solutions, criticized the attacks as distractions from other national issues.#mojtaba_khamenei #pentacrest #allan_hogue #veterans_for_peace #travis_terrell
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
Iran's Revolutionary Guards pledge loyalty to new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have issued a statement affirming their commitment to the country’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following his appointment by the Assembly of Experts. The statement emphasizes the Guards’ readiness to carry out the directives of the current Guardian Jurist, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei, describing their willingness to "perform complete obedience and self-sacrifice in executing the divine commands" of the leader. The declaration comes amid ongoing political transitions within Iran’s leadership structure, as the Assembly of Experts formally confirmed Khamenei’s succession. The Revolutionary Guards, a key pillar of Iran’s theocratic regime, have historically played a central role in enforcing the authority of the supreme leader. Their public endorsement of Khamenei underscores the consolidation of power under the new leadership and reinforces the institutional alignment of Iran’s military and religious institutions with the supreme authority. The statement does not specify immediate actions or policy shifts under Khamenei’s leadership, but it signals a continuation of the existing power dynamics within Iran’s governance. The Guards’ emphasis on "divine commands" reflects the deeply religious and ideological framework that underpins their operations and loyalty. This alignment is critical for maintaining stability within the regime, particularly as Iran navigates domestic and international challenges, including economic pressures and regional conflicts. The broader context of Iran’s leadership transition highlights the interconnectedness of its political and religious institutions.#iran #mojtaba_khamenei #revolutionary_guards #assembly_of_experts #ayatollah_seyyed_mojtaba_khamenei
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
