ALBAWABA - According to an Axios story, U.S. and Israeli intelligence services are apparently having trouble figuring out who is actually in charge of Iran since Mojtaba Khamenei was named Supreme Leader.
Although intelligence assessments show Mojtaba Khamenei is still alive, there is no concrete proof that he is making important decisions or overseeing state activities personally, according to sources quoted in the paper. Officials said that security concerns have apparently prevented Iranian leaders from setting up talks with him.
The uncertainty coincides with a wider leadership void brought about by the recent escalations that resulted in the deaths of numerous key Iranian officials. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has assumed a more significant role in overseeing the nation's political and security environment throughout this time, according to intelligence sources.
The current leadership situation is further complicated by the fact that, before to his alleged killing, Ali Larijani was considered the de facto leader by several intelligence services.
Uncertainty has been increased by Mojtaba Khamenei's few public appearances. Only a written statement celebrating Nowruz and pictures posted on his Telegram account have been part of his recent interactions. Given the lack of public remarks or video appearances, U.S. intelligence authorities are apparently attempting to confirm the chronology and veracity of these photos.
While some experts warn that it is too soon to evaluate the stability of Iran's leadership structure in light of the deaths of several key officials, others speculate that the lack of visibility may be related to security issues or potential injuries.
President Donald Trump and other high-ranking U.S. officials have allegedly voiced alarm about the situation, pointing out that there is presently no concrete proof of who is in charge of Iran's government.
The paper also mentioned that certain Israeli analyses indicate that escalating external pressure on Iran would widen internal rifts. Analysts caution that weakening the current leadership might instead result in the rise of more radical individuals, such as Mojtaba Khamenei.
In the face of persistent regional tensions and internal unpredictability, the scenario continues to generate concerns about Iran's leadership's future course.
