US President Donald Trump offered a cryptic response to Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment as Iran’s new Supreme Leader, stating “We’ll see what happens” in an interview with The Times of Israel on March 9, 2026.
Dismissive Tone Signals No Recognition
Trump, who previously branded Mojtaba a “lightweight” and “unacceptable,” told Fox News anchor Brian Kilmeade “I am not happy” with the dynastic succession by the Assembly of Experts, insisting any leader needs US approval to “last long.” His measured remark contrasts earlier ultimatums amid the war entering day 10.
Israel’s Direct Threat to New Leader
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to treat Mojtaba as an “unequivocal target for elimination,” with IDF warning Assembly members of strikes; Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi rebuffed interference as a “domestic affair.”
IRGC Backs Amid Regime Continuity
The IRGC pledged “complete obedience” to Mojtaba, the 56-year-old Iran-Iraq War veteran sanctioned by US since 2019 for repressive policies, ensuring hardline continuity post-father Ali Khamenei’s US-Israel assassination.
