Explainer: How Iran Will Select a New Supreme Leader After Khamenei
The killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli strike has triggered one of the most critical political transitions in the country since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As tensions rise across the region, Iran has moved quickly to activate its constitutional process to appoint a successor.
Khamenei led the Islamic Republic for nearly three decades and shaped both its political direction and religious authority. The strike targeted his high-security residential compound in central Tehran early Saturday. Reports indicate that several members of his family, including his daughter, son-in-law, daughter-in-law and a grandchild, also died in the attack.
Meanwhile, coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel hit several Iranian cities. Health officials reported more than 200 fatalities.
The escalation followed three rounds of indirect nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington, the latest held in Geneva, which ended without progress.
Transitional Leadership Arrangements
Following Khamenei’s death, his office announced an interim leadership structure. During the transition period, the president, the head of the judiciary and a cleric from the Guardian Council will jointly manage the responsibilities of the Supreme Leader’s office until a successor is chosen.
This temporary arrangement ensures continuity while the formal selection process moves forward.
Role of the Assembly of Experts
At the heart of the succession process stands the Assembly of Experts, a powerful body responsible for appointing Iran’s highest political and religious authority.
The Assembly consists of 88 senior Islamic jurists and clerics elected by public vote for eight-year terms. Its main duty involves selecting a new supreme leader in cases of death, resignation or incapacity. In addition, it supervises the leader’s performance and can remove him if necessary.
Article 107 of Iran’s Constitution clearly states that elected experts determine the leader. Since the 1979 revolution, Iran has had only two supreme leaders: Ruhollah Khomeini, who founded the Islamic Republic, and Khamenei, who succeeded him in 1989.
The Assembly currently operates under the leadership of senior cleric Mohammad Ali Movahedi Kermani.
How the Selection Process Works
Before the Assembly votes, the Guardian Council reviews and approves potential candidates. Only individuals who pass this screening become eligible.
According to constitutional requirements, the supreme leader must be a qualified Islamic jurist, known for justice and piety, and capable of strong political judgment. If no candidate fully meets all criteria, the Assembly may choose someone with proven leadership skills and political experience.
After private discussions, members hold an internal vote. The candidate who secures a majority of votes from those present becomes the new supreme leader.
Private Deliberations and Preparation
Before casting ballots, Assembly members hold closed-door discussions. During these sessions, they evaluate candidates based on religious knowledge, political background and administrative ability.
Experts emphasize that succession planning does not happen suddenly. Instead, internal committees prepare shortlists and assess possible candidates over several years to ensure readiness.
In 1989, after Khomeini’s death, the Assembly selected Khamenei during an emotional session. He secured 60 out of 74 votes. His experience as president, his role during the Iran-Iraq war and his relatively young age influenced the decision.
Potential Successors
Unlike 1989, analysts say no single figure currently commands broad support or matches Khamenei’s combined political and religious authority.
Some foreign media outlets have mentioned Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son. However, observers suggest he does not rank among the leading contenders. Reports indicate that his wife died in the recent strike, and he was not present at the compound during the attack.
Another name circulating abroad involves Hassan Khomeini, grandson of the Islamic Republic’s founder. Nevertheless, insiders indicate that authorities are not considering him.
Previously, many observers viewed former President Ebrahim Raisi as a potential successor. However, his death in a helicopter crash in May 2024 removed a major candidate from the field.
As the Assembly begins formal deliberations, Iran now faces a defining moment that will shape its future political and religious leadership.
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