U.S. intelligence shows Iran's late supreme leader was wary of his son taking power, sources say - CBS News

CBS News
March 15, 2026
3 min read

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U.S. intelligence shows Iran's late leader had concerns about his son becoming the next supreme leader.

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U.S. intelligence indicates Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had reservations about his son Mojtaba Khamenei assuming power, according to sources familiar with the intelligence. The intelligence assessment suggests the elder Khamenei expressed concerns about a hereditary succession that could undermine the Islamic Republic's legitimacy. This revelation comes as Iran faces mounting pressure over succession planning following Khamenei's death. The intelligence findings could complicate efforts by hardline clerics and Revolutionary Guard commanders who have been positioning Mojtaba as the likely successor. The assessment may influence how Iranian power brokers navigate the critical transition period in the theocratic system.

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