Trump says he must play role in choosing Iran’s next leader
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Trump insists on personal involvement in Iran’s succession process.
- Warns continuation of Khamenei’s policies could lead to US conflict within five years.
US President Donald Trump said he believes he must be personally involved in selecting Iran’s next leader following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In an interview with Axios, Trump claimed that Iran would be “wasting its time” if it tried to appoint a successor without US input.
He acknowledged that Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son, is widely seen as the frontrunner but said he would not accept that outcome.
Read more: Trump says Iran needs internal leader after US-'Israel' war
“Khamenei’s son is a lightweight,” Trump said. “I have to be involved in the appointment.”
Trump added that he would reject any new Iranian leader who continued the previous administration’s policies, warning that doing so could risk renewed conflict with the United States within five years.
“Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me. We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” he said.
