Even before Khamenei’s funeral, Israel says potential successor will be ‘certain target for assassination’

Even before the funeral of assassinated Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israel on Wednesday warned that any successor chosen to lead Iran would be a “certain target for assassination.” Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz issued the threat amid escalating hostilities following joint US-Israeli strikes that killed the 86-year-old cleric over the weekend.

In a statement posted publicly, Katz said any leader selected by what he termed the “Iranian terror regime” to continue policies hostile to Israel, the United States and the region would be targeted “no matter his name or where he hides.” He added that he and the Israeli Prime Minister had instructed the Israel Defense Forces to prepare and act as part of the objectives of Operation “Lion’s Roar.”

Iran has announced a three-day state funeral for Khamenei, with the public allowed to pay respects in Tehran before his burial in his hometown of Mashhad. His killing has intensified tensions across the Middle East and triggered uncertainty over succession within Iran’s political and religious establishment.

Amid speculation, reports from Israeli media suggested that Mojtaba Khamenei, the slain leader’s son, could be named successor. However, there has been no independent confirmation from official Iranian state media. Iranian news agencies have offered differing accounts about whether the Assembly of Experts — the body responsible for selecting the Supreme Leader — was meeting in person or conducting proceedings remotely.

Meanwhile, reports indicated that Israeli forces targeted a site linked to the Assembly of Experts in Qom. Accounts from Iranian and Israeli media differed regarding the outcome and whether a formal succession meeting was underway. The region remains on edge as developments continue following Khamenei’s assassination.