Iran is facing a new period of political and military tension. The Assembly of Experts has confirmed Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the new supreme leader.
At the same time, top officials say Tehran will not seek a ceasefire in its conflict with Israel and the United States.
State media reported Mojtaba’s appointment and described him as a hardliner, possibly even more strict than his father.
The Assembly of Experts called on Iranians to support the new leader and “keep unity” during these tense times.
Mojtaba’s rise strengthens the Khamenei family’s hold on power, but it also raises questions about how he will guide Iran’s policies at home and abroad.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf emphasized Iran’s tough stance in a state TV interview, saying the country is not looking for a ceasefire.
“The aggressors should be punished,” he said, warning that Tehran will respond strongly to any attack from outside its borders.
International reaction came quickly. U.S. President Donald Trump called Mojtaba’s appointment “unacceptable,” telling Axios, “they are wasting their time.
Khamenei’s son is a lightweight.” He also said the new leader “is not bound to last long” if his appointment is not coordinated with Washington.
These two messages—a new supreme leader known for hardline views and a refusal to consider a ceasefire—show that Iran’s defiant stance is continuing.
For Iranians, the appointment brings stability within the clerical leadership, but also uncertainty about how Mojtaba will handle growing pressures at home and rising tensions abroad.
As Iran enters this new phase, the leadership change and continued military defiance suggest the country wants to show strength both at home and internationally.
Global powers are watching closely to see how Mojtaba Khamenei will use his authority.
