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INTEL2026-03-04

Iran Names New Supreme Leader

Mojtaba Khamenei takes power — Israel immediately threatens to kill him

Hours after Khamenei's burial, Iran's Assembly of Experts convened at a secret location and voted 68-18 to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei as acting Supreme Leader. His first words ruled out negotiations. Israel's Defence Minister immediately reiterated the public assassination threat. Russia and China vetoed the UN ceasefire resolution the same evening — removing international pressure for surrender. The succession confirms Iran has constitutional continuity and hardline IRGC elements control the transition. The conflict will continue.

Key facts

  • Assembly of Experts votes 68-18 for Mojtaba Khamenei
  • First statement: 'Will not negotiate from weakness'
  • Russia and China veto UN ceasefire resolution
  • Israel immediately reiterates assassination threat
  • Conflict now has new leader — no surrender imminent

Timeline

15:30 UTC

Khamenei funeral begins under heavy security

17:30 UTC

Russia-China veto UN ceasefire resolution 13-2

19:00 UTC

Assembly of Experts convenes at undisclosed location

19:30 UTC

Mojtaba Khamenei named acting Supreme Leader

19:40 UTC

Israel reiterates assassination threat against successor