What does the recent consolidation of power by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Iran signify for the country’s political landscape? The IRGC has effectively assumed control amid a power struggle with President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has been pushed into a “complete political deadlock.” This shift has raised concerns about the future of governance in Iran.

Since being named Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen or heard from, leading to speculation about his health. The IRGC has now taken control of key state functions, with a military council composed of senior IRGC officers making daily decisions. This council has also blocked presidential appointments, further sidelining Pezeshkian.

Ahmad Vahidi, a prominent IRGC figure, has insisted that all vital leadership positions should be managed by the IRGC, reinforcing the military’s grip on power. The IRGC has established a strict security cordon around Mojtaba Khamenei, indicating a heightened level of control and secrecy surrounding the leadership.

The IRGC has been accused of escalating tensions in the region, particularly through its actions against neighboring Gulf countries. In a recent move, the IRGC labeled 18 US companies as “terrorist” and warned their employees to leave their workplaces immediately to save their lives. This warning underscores the IRGC’s aggressive stance in international relations.

Operating independently of the regular army, the IRGC has developed a robust business empire that finances the regime, further entrenching its power within Iran. The organization has emerged as a “state-within-a-state,” combining military might, an intelligence network, and economic power.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the current health status of Mojtaba Khamenei; reports suggest he may be in a coma or critical condition. The long-term implications of the IRGC’s consolidation of power in Iran remain uncertain, raising questions about the future direction of the country.

Pezeshkian has expressed frustration with the IRGC’s approach, particularly its strategy of escalating tensions in the region. He has been vocal about the need for a more diplomatic approach, but the IRGC’s influence appears to be overriding his efforts.

As the situation continues to evolve, the balance of power in Iran may shift further, with the IRGC solidifying its role as a dominant force in both domestic and foreign policy.

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In a significant escalation of rhetoric, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has condemned what he describes as the enemy’s aggression, specifically targeting the United States. Ghalibaf’s statements come amid rising tensions in the region, where he asserted that any ground invasion by the US would be met with a “relentless” and “decisive” response. This warning underscores the precarious nature of US-Iran relations, which have been fraught with conflict and mistrust.

Ghalibaf accused the US of using diplomatic overtures as a facade for secret invasion plans, suggesting that the Iranian military is on high alert. He declared that Iranian forces are “waiting” for any US soldiers attempting a ground entry, indicating a readiness to respond to perceived threats. This declaration reflects Iran’s longstanding position of resistance against foreign military presence in the region.

In a striking shift, Ghalibaf also stated that Tehran would no longer distinguish between US and Israeli actions, signaling a potential broadening of Iran’s military focus. This statement could imply that any perceived aggression from either nation may provoke a unified Iranian response, heightening the stakes in an already volatile environment.

Ghalibaf’s remarks resonate with historical tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for global oil shipments. The region’s stability has been a point of contention for decades, and Ghalibaf’s comments suggest that the situation will not revert to its pre-war status. The implications of this stance could have far-reaching effects on international energy markets and geopolitical alliances.

As the situation develops, Ghalibaf’s warning raises questions about the potential for military confrontation. The Iranian leadership’s commitment to a strong defensive posture may deter some forms of intervention, but it also increases the risk of miscalculations that could lead to conflict.

In related news, Nabil Gabol, a Pakistani politician, recently claimed he has never met Dawood Ibrahim, a figure linked to organized crime. Gabol’s statements come as he lives in close proximity to where Ibrahim is said to reside, adding another layer of complexity to regional security discussions.

Meanwhile, JICA President Tanaka Akihiko met with GEAPP CEO Woochong Um at JICA headquarters in Tokyo, expressing hope for future collaboration across various sectors. This meeting highlights ongoing international efforts to address global challenges, contrasting sharply with the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of Ghalibaf’s statements and the potential responses from the US and its allies. As diplomatic channels continue to be tested, the international community watches closely for further developments in this high-stakes situation.

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Prior to the recent developments, the political landscape in Iran was dominated by the longstanding leadership of Ali Khamenei, who served as Supreme Leader for over three decades. His death in an Israeli airstrike on February 28, 2026, marked a significant turning point for the nation. Expectations surrounding the succession were fraught with uncertainty, as many speculated on who would assume the mantle of leadership and how they would navigate the complex political environment.

The Decisive Moment

On March 8, 2026, just days after the tragic airstrike that claimed the life of his father, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as Iran’s Supreme Leader. This appointment came amidst reports that he had sustained injuries during the attack, which also resulted in the deaths of his mother and wife. Iranian officials have stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is safe but has not been seen in public since his appointment, leading to widespread speculation about his health, including claims that he might be in a coma. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and military have pledged their allegiance to him, indicating a strong initial backing despite the circumstances.

Immediate Effects

The immediate aftermath of Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment has been tumultuous. While he is recognized as the new Supreme Leader, the uncertainty surrounding his health raises questions about his ability to fulfill the responsibilities of leadership. Reports suggest that he may delegate power to other officials due to his injuries, which could lead to a shift in how Iran is governed in the short term. Public sentiment has also turned against him, with protests erupting in Tehran, where demonstrators have been heard chanting “Death to Mojtaba!” This public opposition reflects a significant challenge for the new leader as he seeks to consolidate power.

Expert Perspectives

Experts have weighed in on the implications of this leadership change. Yousef Pezeshkian, a prominent Iranian politician, expressed relief at the news of Mojtaba’s safety, stating, “I heard news that Mr. Mojtaba Khamenei had been injured. I have asked some friends who had connections. They told me that, thank God, he is safe and sound.” However, analysts caution that the management of the country is now a critical concern. An Iranian journalist noted, “The important point is the management of the country,” underscoring the urgency of effective governance in this transitional period.

Long-term Implications

Looking ahead, the implications of Mojtaba Khamenei’s leadership are uncertain. Emile Hokayem, a regional expert, remarked, “Killing him early is certainly an Israeli priority. If he survives, he becomes a totem, a testimony to the resilience of the system.” This perspective highlights the geopolitical stakes involved, as Iran’s adversaries may view his survival as a symbol of the regime’s strength. The IRGC and military’s support may play a crucial role in stabilizing his leadership, but the public’s reaction will be equally important in determining his future.

Current Uncertainties

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Mojtaba Khamenei’s injuries and how long he will remain out of public view. Speculation exists about whether he is capable of fulfilling his duties as Supreme Leader, which could influence both domestic and international perceptions of Iran’s political stability. As the situation unfolds, the world watches closely to see how this new chapter in Iran’s leadership will develop.

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The Israel Iran conflict has entered a critical phase, marked by a large-scale military assault that began on February 28, 2026. This escalation has resulted in significant consequences, including the deaths of over 1,300 civilians in Iran and the targeting of nearly 10,000 civilian sites by Israeli and US forces. The severity of these attacks has raised alarms not only within Iran but also among neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, where tensions are palpable.

Military Actions and Responses

In retaliation, Iran has launched missile strikes and drone missions aimed at nearly all GCC countries, with Oman being the sole exception due to its neutral stance and absence of American military bases. The Iranian military, specifically the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has executed a 37th wave of attacks targeting Israeli locations and US bases in the Gulf region. This ongoing military campaign, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, has resulted in approximately 140 US service members being wounded and seven killed since its inception.

Strategic Objectives and Civilian Impact

The US-Israeli military campaign aims to degrade or eliminate Iran’s military capabilities, particularly its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. However, Iran has accused the US and Israel of deliberately attacking civilian infrastructure, including homes and healthcare facilities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that Iran is employing second-order coercion to compel the US and Israel to cease their military assaults, further complicating the conflict.

International Reactions and Statements

International reactions to the conflict have varied, with some leaders expressing concern over the escalating violence. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi remarked that Iran’s attacks on its neighbors bring “benefit for no one,” highlighting the broader implications of the conflict on regional stability. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defense has warned that a specific day would witness the most intense attacks during the ongoing military operations.

Iran’s Threats and Strategic Moves

In a show of defiance, Iran has threatened to target economic centers and banks associated with US and Israeli entities in the region. Additionally, the Iranian government has begun mining the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, indicating a willingness to escalate the conflict further. The long-term effectiveness of Iran’s strategy of second-order coercion remains unclear, as does the potential for internal chaos or civil war within Iran as a result of the conflict.

Future Developments and Uncertainties

As the situation unfolds, uncertainties loom over the exact duration and outcome of the US-Israeli military campaign. Former Israeli officials have indicated that the military campaign could last at least four to five weeks, emphasizing the complexity of the conflict. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential for further escalation or diplomatic resolutions.

The Israel Iran conflict continues to evolve, with significant military actions and civilian casualties shaping the landscape of regional politics. As both sides prepare for potential further escalations, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution to the ongoing violence.

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Esmail Qaani, the commander of the IRGC’s Quds Force, is at the center of speculation regarding his status following reports of espionage for Israel. While some reports claim he has been arrested, Tehran has not confirmed or denied these allegations.

Qaani inherited his position after the assassination of Qassem Soleimani in January 2020, and since then, he has been a significant figure in Iran’s military and intelligence operations. His leadership has been marked by survival against multiple assassination attempts, earning him the nickname ‘man with nine lives.’

Recent developments have raised questions about Qaani’s whereabouts. He was reportedly missing from public view since the US and Israel attacks on February 28, 2026, which targeted key Iranian figures. Notably, he was not among those killed in the strikes that resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Arab media outlets have suggested that Qaani may have been executed by the IRGC, although these claims remain unverified. His intelligence inputs have been linked to aiding the US and Israel in the assassination of Khamenei, further complicating his standing within Iranian leadership.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the allegations of espionage for Mossad, and the situation surrounding Qaani continues to evolve. He has previously been declared dead multiple times, only to resurface later, adding to the uncertainty of his current status.

The implications of Qaani’s potential arrest or execution could have significant repercussions for Iran’s military strategy and internal power dynamics. As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring developments related to this key figure in Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.

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"The office of the criminal prime minister of the Zionist regime and the command center of the regime’s air force chief were struck," stated the IRGC in their announcement.

IRGC Attacks Israeli Targets

The Guards, reporting directly to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in strikes by the US and Israel on Saturday, stated that the assaults also hit the command center of Israel’s air force chief.

Shortly after the incident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a public appearance at the location of an Iranian missile attack in Beit Shemesh that resulted in the deaths of nine individuals. He stated that the joint US-Israeli initiative seeks to eradicate existential dangers while fostering an environment conducive to change within Iran.

Netanyahu claims that the key distinction between Israel and Iran is that Israel does not aim at civilian targets.

Details of the Strikes

"You can see the distinction. The oppressors in Tehran aim at civilians, while we focus on the oppressors of Tehran to safeguard civilians." pic.twitter.com/OiaBZUL9B7— Skint Eastwood (@Skint_Eastwood1) March 2, 2026

Expressing sympathy for the families of the victims, Netanyahu remarked, "Iran’s terrorist regime targets civilians, while we respond to the terror regime to protect our own civilians. That represents a significant distinction."

ISRAELI LOCATIONS HEAVILY IMPACTED BY IRANIAN STRIKE

Response from Israeli Officials

The Revolutionary Guards of Iran announced that the targeted sites were “significantly impacted” during the tenth round of their retaliatory actions. Iranian state media asserted that the future of Benjamin Netanyahu was “uncertain.”

The Iranian government has declared that it has initiated ten rounds of missile and drone strikes following the joint US-Israeli attacks on Saturday that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Officials in Iran have characterized this operation as a legitimate act of self-defense, asserting that Israeli territory and American military installations in the area are being targeted in a series of coordinated assaults.

On Monday, AFP reporters noted that fresh blasts were audible over Jerusalem following the Israeli military’s announcement of new missile launches from Iran.

Impact on Regional Tensions

"Recently, the IDF detected missiles fired from Iran aimed at the State of Israel. Defensive measures are currently in place to counter the threat," the military stated in a release.

CONFLICT ESCALATES IN LEBANON AS HEZBOLLAH ENTERS THE FIGHT

The coordinated airstrike by the US and Israel against Iran escalated on Monday, showing no signs of easing tensions, as conflicts extended into Lebanon. Israel reported targeting Hezbollah sites after the group launched missiles and drones at Israeli land. Additionally, Iran fired missiles and drones at Israel, Gulf nations, and a British installation in Cyprus.

Some Iranians expressed approval of the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had been in power for almost forty years and oversaw security forces implicated in the deaths of thousands of anti-government demonstrators earlier this year. Nevertheless, Iran’s conservative clerical regime has displayed no signs of giving up its authority.

A new conflict erupted when Hezbollah, a significant ally of Iran, initiated an assault in response to Khamenei’s demise. In retaliation, Israel conducted extensive airstrikes, claiming to target Hezbollah-controlled areas in the southern suburbs of Beirut and prominent militants. According to Lebanon’s state news agency NNA, the initial reports indicated at least 31 fatalities and 149 injuries.

– Concludes

In collaboration with various agencies

Authored By: Devika Bhattacharya Released On: March 2, 2026, at 18:03 IST

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On March 1, 2026, the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a significant attack by Israel and the United States has raised questions about the future leadership of the Islamic Republic. Speculation is mounting regarding Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son, as a potential successor.

Rapid Read

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was confirmed dead following a coordinated U.S.-Israeli assault targeting Iranian military and governmental sites. This event has thrown the Islamic Republic’s future into uncertainty and heightened regional tensions.

Mojtaba Khamenei, the second-eldest son of the deceased Supreme Leader, has been a prominent figure in Iranian politics, often seen at significant events such as the annual Quds Day in Tehran.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced Khamenei’s death, stating it presented Iranians with their “greatest chance” to reclaim their nation. The U.S. has indicated that military operations will persist as needed.

The strikes mark a pivotal moment in U.S. involvement in Iran, being the second military action in eight months amid ongoing nuclear negotiations. The absence of a clear successor to Khamenei raises concerns about a leadership vacuum, as he held ultimate authority over major policies.

In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has threatened to initiate its most aggressive operations against U.S. and Israeli interests.

Who is Mojtaba Khamenei?

Mojtaba Khamenei, born on September 8, 1969, in Mashhad, Iran, is recognized as a significant political figure and cleric, being the second-eldest son of the late Supreme Leader. He has cultivated a strong presence within Iran’s clerical elite, despite not holding any formal government position.

He pursued religious education at the Qom Seminary and has established connections with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij militia. His brief service in the IRGC during the Iran-Iraq War and subsequent involvement in political affairs have positioned him as a key advisor within the Supreme Leader’s office.

Although he has not held an official government role, Mojtaba’s influence is derived from his control over critical clerical and security networks, his support for hardline political figures, and his involvement in internal security matters, including the suppression of protests following the disputed 2009 election.

His potential as a successor has been a topic of speculation, particularly after the deaths or sidelining of other contenders. Critics, however, argue that his lack of a top clerical rank and the implications of dynastic succession could pose challenges in Iran’s republican framework.

Moreover, investigations have linked Mojtaba to substantial financial networks and assets outside Iran, highlighting his economic influence beyond the political and religious spheres.

How is the Supreme Leader of Iran Chosen?

The selection of Iran’s Supreme Leader follows a constitutional process established by the Islamic Republic.

• Who Has the Authority?
  An 88-member clerical body, elected by the public every eight years, is responsible for appointing, supervising, and, if necessary, dismissing the Supreme Leader.
• What Happens Immediately After the Leader’s Death?
  Upon the Supreme Leader’s death or incapacitation, a three-person interim council, consisting of the President, the head of the judiciary, and a senior cleric from the Guardian Council, assumes leadership duties temporarily.
• How the Successor Is Selected
  The Assembly of Experts convenes urgently to review candidates who must be politically and religiously qualified, capable of leadership under Iran’s Islamic system, and undergo an internal voting process.
• Behind-the-Scenes Power Dynamics
  While the Assembly formally decides, the IRGC and senior clerics in Qom significantly influence the outcome, with elite consensus often shaping the decision.
• Possible Types of Successors
  Analysts speculate potential successors may include a hardline cleric aligned with the security establishment or a more politically experienced figure.
• How long does it take?
  Constitutionally, the process should occur as quickly as possible, likely taking days to weeks.

How was Ayatollah Ali Khamenei picked in 1989?

Following the death of Ruhollah Khomeini on June 3, 1989, the Assembly of Experts convened the next day to select a new Supreme Leader. Despite the constitutional requirement for the leader to be a top-ranking cleric, the Assembly ultimately chose Ali Khamenei, who was supported by influential figures, including Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani. The transition was completed within a day, ensuring political stability during a critical period for the Islamic Republic.

With Agency Inputs

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