U.S. intel shows Iran's late leader was wary of son in power, sources say

CBS News
March 15, 2026
2 min read

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U.S. intelligence reports Iran's former leader doubted his son's ability to lead.

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U.S. intelligence has briefed President Trump's inner circle that Iran's late supreme leader harbored doubts about his son succeeding him in power. The intelligence assessment indicates the former leader viewed Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as "not very bright" and had reservations about his leadership capabilities. This intelligence provides the Trump administration with potential insights into internal Iranian leadership dynamics during a period of succession uncertainty. The briefing suggests U.S. intelligence agencies are closely monitoring Iran's leadership transition and sharing assessments with top White House officials.

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Intelligence assessments have been shared with President Trump's inner circle.

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