Khamenei Hands Power to Military Amid Rising Israel Tensions — Is Mojtaba the Hidden Power Broker?
As geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel continue to intensify, reports suggest that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has delegated significant authority to Iran’s military and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Behind the scenes, speculation is growing over the quiet but steady rise of his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as a potential successor or strategic power broker in Iran’s political future.
Military Ascendancy in Iran’s Power Structure
Facing rising external threats and internal unrest, Iran’s leadership has increasingly leaned on the military, particularly the IRGC, to safeguard national security and assert control. Sources close to Tehran’s political circles indicate that Khamenei has empowered the military to take direct command of sensitive security operations, especially those related to Israel and regional proxies.
This move represents a notable centralization of power within the security establishment, possibly signaling a longer-term transition plan within Iran’s ruling elite.
Who Is Mojtaba Khamenei?
Mojtaba Khamenei, the elusive and rarely-seen second son of the Supreme Leader, has long been rumored to play a behind-the-scenes role in Iran’s political apparatus. Though he holds no formal government position, he reportedly wields considerable influence over the IRGC, intelligence services, and conservative clerical networks.
Analysts suggest Mojtaba may be:
Acting as a strategic advisor during critical military escalations
Strengthening ties with key commanders within the IRGC Quds Force
Positioning himself as a continuity figure should a leadership vacuum arise
The Israel Factor
Tensions between Iran and Israel have reached new highs amid continued conflict involving Hezbollah, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and proxy wars in Syria and Gaza. Tehran views external pressure as justification to tighten internal control and escalate militarized responses.
The delegation of more power to the IRGC may be a preemptive move, signaling Iran's readiness to respond with force while maintaining domestic order through military oversight.
Is Iran Preparing for a Leadership Transition?
Ayatollah Khamenei, now 85, has led Iran since 1989. Speculation over succession has intensified, especially as his public appearances become less frequent. Mojtaba’s increasing visibility, and his alleged coordination with Iran’s security apparatus, suggests that the Islamic Republic could be laying the groundwork for a dynastic or military-backed leadership transition.
However, this would face resistance from both reformist politicians and segments of the clerical establishment who oppose hereditary leadership within the Islamic Republic’s system.
FAQ – Iran’s Power Shift and Mojtaba Khamenei’s Rise
Q1: Why has Khamenei handed more power to the military?
A: Rising regional tensions, particularly with Israel, and internal instability have prompted Khamenei to rely more heavily on the IRGC to manage security and enforce order.
Q2: Is Mojtaba Khamenei officially in line to succeed his father?
A: No, Mojtaba holds no official title, but he is widely believed to be a powerful behind-the-scenes figure with strong ties to Iran’s military and intelligence communities.
Q3: What role does the IRGC play in Iran’s government?
A: The IRGC is a powerful parallel military and political institution in Iran, controlling vast economic assets, foreign policy operations, and internal security.
Q4: How does this affect Iran-Israel relations?
A: The transfer of authority to the military likely signals a hardening of Iran’s posture toward Israel and the West, possibly increasing the risk of military escalation.
Q5: What are the implications for Iran’s future leadership?
A: If Mojtaba Khamenei consolidates enough influence, Iran may be headed toward a military-supported leadership succession, raising questions about future governance, reform, and foreign policy.
Published on: June 19, 2025
Uploaded by: PAVAN
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