Who will be Iran’s next Supreme Leader? Key players, process and politics explained

Following a full day of suspense on Sunday, Iran confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This development has triggered a complex succession process in a nation where the Supreme Leader holds the highest authority. The Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body of clerics, holds the responsibility for selecting Khamenei's successor. This decision is pivotal, as it will shape Iran's future domestic and international policies. Several key figures have emerged as potential successors, each with distinct political leanings. Ebrahim Raisi, the current President, is a prominent contender known for his hardline stance. Meanwhile, Sadeq Larijani, a member of the Guardian Council, and Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader's son, are also in the spotlight. Their varied backgrounds and ideologies suggest that the selection process could significantly impact Iran's political trajectory. The political implications of this succession extend beyond Iran's borders, affecting regional stability in the Middle East. The new leader's approach to foreign policy and nuclear negotiations will be closely watched by global powers. As the Assembly of Experts deliberates, the world waits to see who will guide Iran through its next chapter, with the outcome likely to influence both regional alliances and international relations.

— Authored by Next24 Live