Trump Expresses Concern Over Mojtaba Khamenei's Appointment as Iran's New Supreme Leader

US President says he does not believe the newly appointed leader can "live in peace" as military operations continue in the region.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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US President Donald Trump expressed concern over the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of late Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, as Iran's new Supreme Leader. Trump stated that he does not believe the newly appointed leader of the Islamic Republic will be able to 'live in peace' as US military operations in the region against the regime continue. Trump also discussed the timing and rationale behind recent US military strikes on Iran, claiming the operation was necessary to prevent imminent attacks and neutralize about half of Iran's missile capabilities.

Why it matters

The leadership transition in Iran marks a significant moment in the country's political history, as Mojtaba Khamenei becomes the third supreme leader of the Islamic Republic. Trump's comments reflect the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran, with the US continuing military operations in the region against the Iranian regime.

The details

During an interview with Fox News, Trump said the recent US military strikes on Iran were necessary to prevent imminent attacks and neutralize about half of Iran's missile capabilities. Trump claimed that without the strikes, Iran could have launched attacks within three days and that obtaining nuclear weapons would have posed an immediate threat. Regarding potential diplomatic engagement, Trump suggested that talks with the Iranian regime are possible but would depend on the terms.

  • On February 28, the US and Israel conducted joint military strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and several senior leaders of the Islamic Republic.
  • On Sunday, Iran's Assembly of Experts announced the appointment of the late leader's son, 56-year-old cleric Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who expressed concern over Mojtaba Khamenei's appointment as Iran's new Supreme Leader.

Mojtaba Khamenei

The 56-year-old cleric who was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, succeeding his late father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

The late Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, who was killed in the joint US-Israel military strikes on February 28.

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What they’re saying

“I don't believe he can live in peace”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (Fox News)

“When we attacked them first, we knocked out 50 per cent of their missiles. If we didn't, it would have been a much harder fight. No other president has the guts to do it. I don't want a president who hasn't got the courage in five or 10 years to go in.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (Fox News)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.