Chosen by War: The Rise of Iran's New Supreme Leader - The Daily Recap

Podcast: The Daily

Published: 2026-03-17

Duration: 34 min

Guests: Farnaz Fassihi

What Happened

Iran's new supreme leader, Mushtaba Khamenei, was appointed amid war conditions that influenced his selection over other candidates. Khamenei, son of the assassinated former supreme leader, emerged as the preferred choice of hardliners, particularly the Revolutionary Guards, who wanted to maintain the regime's defiant stance against the United States and Israel.

The selection process was compared to a 'Game of Thrones' scenario, with different factions within Iran vying for influence. The Assembly of Experts, responsible for appointing the supreme leader, was influenced by both moderates and hardliners, with the latter ultimately prevailing due to the pressing circumstances of war.

Moderates had proposed candidates like former President Hassan Rouhani and Hassan Khomeini, aiming to signal potential reforms and a softer stance internationally. However, these efforts were countered by the hardliners' push for Moshtaba Khamenei, emphasizing continuity of the current revolutionary ideology.

Mushtaba Khamenei's appointment was initially delayed due to threats from the U.S. and Israel to target the new leader. However, the hardliners quickly consolidated their efforts, ensuring his selection was finalized through a second vote by the Assembly of Experts.

Mushtaba Khamenei's past involvement in Iran's military and political spheres, including his role in the 2009 election crackdown, underscores his alignment with hardline policies. Despite his crucial new role, he remains a mysterious figure, having issued only two public statements since his appointment.

The Iranian public, especially the majority seeking change, is left disillusioned by the turn of events. The prospect of reform seems diminished as Mushtaba Khamenei is expected to continue the hardline approach of his predecessor, compounded by the ongoing conflict with the U.S. and Israel.

Key Insights

• Mushtaba Khamenei's rise to power was heavily influenced by the ongoing war with the U.S. and Israel, which favored a hardline continuation of policies.
• The selection of Iran's new supreme leader involved significant behind-the-scenes power struggles, with hardliners ultimately securing Khamenei's appointment.
• Mushtaba Khamenei has longstanding ties with Iran's military and Revolutionary Guards, having fought in the Iran-Iraq war and played a role in past political crackdowns.
• The Iranian public, many of whom hoped for change, are now facing a continuation of hardline policies under Khamenei's leadership, with little sign of reform.