Trump Demands Role in Choosing Iran’s Next Supreme Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C.: President Donald Trump has declared that he intends to be personally involved in the selection of Iran’s next Supreme Leader, drawing a direct parallel to the recent political transition in Venezuela.

Speaking in an interview with Axios on Thursday, the President dismissed reports that Mojtaba Khamenei—son of the late Ayatollah—is the frontrunner to succeed his father. “Khamenei’s son is a lightweight and is completely unacceptable to me,” the President remarked. “They are wasting their time. I have to be involved in the appointment, just like with Delcy [Rodriguez] in Venezuela.”

The President emphasized that the U.S. will not accept a leader who continues the previous regime’s hostile policies, warning that such a choice could lead the U.S. back to war within five years. “We want someone who brings harmony and peace to Iran,” he stated.

Addressing the ongoing military situation, President Trump noted that the selection process in Tehran is in its early stages. He confirmed that Operation Epic Fury is proceeding according to schedule, though he declined to provide a specific timeline for its conclusion. The President also highlighted that many people within Iran are demanding protection as the regime targets countries unrelated to the conflict.