After the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a round of discussion is going on in Iran regarding the succession of power. No new name has been officially announced yet, but the name of his son Mujtaba Khamenei is being prominently mentioned in media reports. Under the Constitution of Iran, now the 88-member council will elect the new leader and till then the interim council will look after the governance.
How is the new Supreme Leader elected in Iran?
According to the rules of Iran, a constitutional process is followed when the post of Supreme Leader becomes vacant. Its main responsibility lies with the Assembly of Experts which consists of 88 religious scholars. This council elects the future leader of the country. An interim council manages the country until a new leader is elected. In this entire process, religious and political experience is given utmost importance.
Which names are being discussed as successors?
Looking at the current situation, speculations are being made on many big names. However, no name has been approved by the government yet. The major names in the race for succession are:
Mojtaba Khamenei: Mujtaba Khamenei, 56, is the son of the current leader and is considered to have strong ties to the IRGC.
Hassan Khomeini: He is also being seen as a possible face.
Assembly of Experts: Only this 88-member body has the right to take the final decision.
This news is important for Indians living in Gulf countries because the stability of Iran has a direct impact on oil prices and the security of the region. For expatriates working in countries like Dubai and Saudi Arabia, the political situation there may also affect trade and travel rules.
