56-year-old Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei has been elected as the new Supreme Leader in Iran. Iran’s Ambassador to India Mohammad Fatah Ali has clearly said that this decision is of the people of Iran and there will be no interference from the US government in it. Meanwhile, with the arrival of the new leader, tension in the Middle East has increased significantly, which is directly impacting the Indians living in Gulf countries. In view of security reasons, the CBSE Board 12th exams to be held in the Middle East have been postponed for the time being.
Iran’s new leader and tension with America
Iran’s 88-member ‘Assembly of Experts’ declared Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader on 8 March 2026. This is the first time since 1979 that the son has succeeded the father. US President Donald Trump had given a statement that the new leader would have to take America’s approval. On this, the Iranian ambassador gave a strong reply and said that after the assassination of the old leader on February 28, Iran’s constitution is working strongly even in war-like situations and they do not need any kind of approval from America.
Impact on Indians and students living in Gulf
Just hours after the announcement of the new leader, Iran has intensified missile and drone attacks on Israel and other targets. Due to this increasing military tension, security has been increased in the Middle East. In view of the situation, CBSE has postponed the Class 12 board examinations to be held between March 12 and 16 in the Middle East region. Apart from this, huge movements are also being seen in the crude oil market. Iran has talked about targeting energy sites, which is causing huge fluctuations in oil prices.
