Trump says Iran’s next Supreme Leader needs U.S. approval

Donald Trump, the president of the United States, has said whoever emerges as the next Supreme Leader of Iran may not remain in power if the leadership transition happens without Washington’s approval.

Trump remarked during an interview with ABC News amid ongoing speculation about who will succeed the late Iranian leader, Ali Khamenei.

Khamenei was reportedly killed during a recent escalation of conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

Since his death, attention has shifted to the process of selecting a new leader for the Islamic Republic, a role that holds the highest authority in Iran’s political structure.

Trump said any new leader chosen without his approval would struggle to remain in power for long.

According to him, the United States must have a role in determining who leads Iran in order to ensure stability and prevent future confrontations between the two countries.

Trump insists U.S. influence will shape Iran’s leadership

Speaking during the interview, Trump said the survival of Iran’s next Supreme Leader could depend on whether the United States supports the choice.

He argued that Washington’s involvement would help ensure that the next leader does not pursue policies that could trigger renewed conflict between the two countries.

Trump added that several individuals within Iran could potentially qualify for the role, suggesting that he might be open to approving a candidate linked to the previous leadership.

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However, he maintained that the United States must be involved in the process to prevent recurring tensions that could require future military action.

Israeli officials also warn potential successor

Meanwhile, Israel Katz, the Israeli defence minister, issued a strong warning regarding whoever succeeds Khamenei.

He said any individual appointed to replace the late Iranian leader could become a direct target if hostilities between the countries continue.

The statement highlights the heightened tensions in the region following the recent military confrontation that reportedly resulted in the deaths of several Iranian officials and commanders.

Debate continues over possible successor

One of the names frequently mentioned as a possible successor is Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late supreme leader.

However, Trump recently dismissed the possibility of Mojtaba assuming the position, reiterating that the United States should play a role in determining Iran’s future leadership.

The position of Supreme Leader in Iran carries enormous authority, overseeing the country’s armed forces, judiciary, and key policy decisions.

Iranian political institutions are expected to announce a successor once the internal selection process is completed.