The Big Story: Who is Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s new Supreme Leader and how might his rule change the US‑Iran war?

Your Way Home with Hongbin Jeong · Mar 9, 2026 · 13m

Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader after the killing of his father, Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israeli strike — a move that could reshape the country’s political future and its relations with Washington. The appointment comes despite strong opposition from Donald Trump, who had previously said the younger Khamenei would be “unacceptable” as Iran’s next leader and suggested the United States should have a say in the succession. So who exactly is Mojtaba Khamenei? And with Washington openly opposed to his leadership, could his appointment push…