Trump demands say in Iran’s next leader, rejects Khamenei’s son as successor

United States President, Donald Trump, has declared that he must play a direct role in determining the next leader of Iran following the death of the country’s long-time Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

Speaking during an interview with Axios, Trump said Washington should be involved in the process that will produce the Islamic Republic’s next supreme authority, arguing that the choice of leader will determine whether the country moves toward stability or renewed confrontation with the United States.

The U.S. president specifically dismissed the possibility of Mojtaba Khamenei—the late leader’s son and a cleric widely viewed as a leading contender—succeeding his father.

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Trump described Mojtaba as “unacceptable” and a “lightweight,” saying he would oppose any succession plan that keeps Iran on the same political trajectory.

“Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me. We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” Trump said during the interview.

Trump also compared the unfolding political transition in Iran to developments in Venezuela, where Delcy Rodríguez rose to power after U.S. military action led to the removal and capture of former president Nicolás Maduro earlier this year.

He suggested that U.S. involvement could help shape a more stable leadership outcome in Tehran.

Despite Trump’s comments, uncertainty continues to surround Iran’s leadership structure in the aftermath of recent U.S. and Israeli military strikes that reportedly killed Khamenei.

Iranian authorities have yet to officially announce a successor, though several figures within the clerical establishment are believed to be under consideration.

Under Iran’s political system, the next supreme leader is formally selected by the powerful Assembly of Experts, a body of senior clerics. However, the ongoing regional conflict and geopolitical pressure from Washington have intensified speculation about how the succession process will unfold.

The situation has further heightened tensions in the Middle East, as global powers closely monitor developments that could reshape Iran’s political direction and its relationship with the United States.