In his address, Putin noted that in conditions where Iran faces armed aggression, fulfilling the duties of such a high position will require significant courage and dedication. "I am confident that you will honorably continue your father's legacy and unite the Iranian people in the face of serious challenges," the Kremlin statement said.
The President of Russia also emphasized "unwavering support" for Tehran and expressed solidarity with Iranian friends, adding that "Russia has been and will remain a reliable ally of the Islamic Republic."
Mojtaba Khamenei, who is 56 years old, is the second son of Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, who was killed on February 28 as a result of an Israeli airstrike during a joint operation by Israel and the United States against Iran. On March 9, Iranian news agencies reported Mojtaba Khamenei's appointment to this position. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pledged allegiance to him, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian characterized his appointment as "an expression of the Islamic nation's desire to strengthen unity."
Donald Trump had previously expressed a desire to personally participate in the process of selecting the new Supreme Leader of Iran, claiming that he would not accept a candidate who would continue Ali Khamenei's policies. Ahead of Mojtaba Khamenei's election, Trump stated in an interview with ABC News that the new leader must "receive approval from the U.S.," otherwise he would not be able to hold the position. According to Fox News host Brian Kilmeade, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the election of Mojtaba Khamenei.
