The US State Department announced a $10 million reward on March 15, 2026, for intelligence leading to the disruption of activities by Mojtaba Khamenei—Iran’s new Supreme Leader—and IRGC chiefs amid the ongoing war.
Bounty Targets and Rationale
Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei after his death in late February, leads Iran’s war decisions including Hormuz threats and retaliatory strikes. Rewards also target IRGC commanders like Hossein Salami for human rights abuses, nuclear activities, and terrorism sponsorship, per Rewards for Justice program.
Strategic Context
The bounty escalates psychological pressure as US strikes hit 6,000+ targets, including Kharg Island, while Iran vows revenge via Gulf proxies. Tehran dismissed it as “desperate propaganda,” but it signals Trump’s regime change hints without ground troops.
Potential Impact
Past bounties yielded intel on figures like Soleimani; this aims to fracture IRGC loyalty amid economic collapse from oil export halts. Critics warn it risks Iranian hardliner unity against the West.
