Iran's Khamenei picks 3 emergency successors amid assassination threats, son Mojtaba left out: Reports

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly named three senior clerics as potential successors amid ongoing conflict with Israel and rising concerns over his security. According to official sources, the 86-year-old leader is currently operating from a secured underground facility in Lavizan, northeast Tehran, following increased threats of assassination.

The development comes after several top Iranian military commanders were killed in Israeli airstrikes targeting military and nuclear infrastructure. Sources confirmed that Khamenei has begun appointing replacements for key positions to maintain continuity in command and avoid disruption in the event of further losses. He has also reportedly delegated certain powers to the Supreme Council of the Revolutionary Guards.

As per reports, Khamenei has directed the Assembly of Experts — the clerical body responsible for appointing Iran’s Supreme Leader — to be prepared for a swift transition. The three names put forward for succession have not been disclosed. The move is being viewed internally as a contingency step in case of sudden incapacitation or death due to the ongoing conflict.

One of the key revelations is that Mojtaba Khamenei, the Supreme Leader’s son, is not among the three shortlisted candidates. Despite earlier speculation regarding his possible elevation, sources confirmed his name has not been included. Mojtaba is known to maintain strong ties with the Revolutionary Guards but has no official designation within the current shortlist.

Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continued into the second week, with renewed airstrikes reported near Isfahan, including on a nuclear research facility. On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “no one is immune,” when asked whether Iran’s Supreme Leader was a target. Talks in Geneva between Iranian and European diplomats have so far failed to yield results, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is not open to negotiations during continued Israeli attacks.