WASHINGTON: Tehran confirmed Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new Supreme Leader. Washington and Jerusalem reacted differently.
US response: cautious
President Donald Trump avoided direct criticism. He focused on energy markets and US strategic interests. On Truth Social, he said temporary oil price spikes were a small cost for global stability.
“An hour after the announcement, he posted on Truth Social that temporary oil price rises were a small price for global stability and security.”
“On Sunday, Trump told ABC News that Iran’s next leader would need Washington’s approval, signaling US influence over the selection. He called Khamenei’s expected rise problematic but did not threaten military action.”
Israel’s reaction: direct and aggressive
Israel has taken a confrontational stance. Defence Minister Israel Katz said any leader tied to Iran’s ruling elite would be “an unequivocal target for elimination.” The Israeli military warned it would hold successors personally accountable, signaling readiness for targeted operations.
Even before Mojtaba Khamenei’s formal appointment, Israel increased strikes on Iranian infrastructure and proxy positions, showing it will pressure both policy and individuals linked to Tehran’s strategy.
Implications
Mojtaba Khamenei, close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is seen as continuing Iran’s hardline policies. His selection upholds the ideological path of his late father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and reinforces the existing power structure.
Analysts note that many Iranians hoped for a shift toward elected leadership. Those hopes now appear limited by regional conflicts and foreign intervention.
For Washington, the appointment complicates diplomacy. A leader tied to Iran’s security and ideological elite — whose family has already faced US and Israeli strikes — is unlikely to negotiate soon.
The US aims to keep leverage without military confrontation. It focuses on stabilizing energy markets and coordinating with European and Gulf partners to manage the tense situation.
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