Iran names new supreme leader during Tehran airstrike fires

Iran names new supreme leader during Tehran airstrike fires

On March 8, 2026, Iran’s Assembly of Experts announced the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The announcement followed the death of the previous leader, Ali Khamenei, who was killed on February 28, 2026 during airstrikes targeting senior Iranian leadership in Tehran amid an expanding regional conflict. The Assembly of Experts, an 88-member clerical body responsible for appointing the country’s supreme leader, confirmed the decision after several days of internal deliberations.

The announcement occurred while large fires burned across parts of Tehran after strikes hit fuel storage facilities and oil infrastructure. Thick smoke covered sections of the capital as emergency services and authorities responded to explosions and fires caused by the attacks. Iranian environmental and emergency agencies warned residents about hazardous air conditions and advised people to remain indoors due to pollutants released by the burning fuel depots.

Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric born in 1969 and the son of the late leader, assumed the position that holds ultimate authority over Iran’s political system, armed forces, and judiciary. The leadership transition occurred during ongoing military confrontations involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which began following the targeted strikes that killed senior Iranian officials. Iranian state media called for national unity following the appointment while military and political leaders pledged allegiance to the new supreme leader.