There is no clear successor to Ali Khamenei in Iran, but one name is increasingly drawing attention: his second son, Mojtaba Khamenei.

Following the eventual death of the ayatollah, a temporary leadership body would be tasked with selecting a new supreme leader. Under Iran’s system, the candidate must be a male cleric with strong political credentials, moral authority, and unwavering loyalty to the Islamic Republic, The Caspian Post reports via CNN.

A Powerful Insider - But Not a Senior Cleric

CNN identifies the 56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei as a leading contender. He is widely believed to have strong ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij militia, formally known as the Basij - two of the country’s most influential power centers.

However, the report notes several major obstacles. Mojtaba is not considered a high-ranking cleric and does not hold an official government position. In addition, dynastic succession - the transfer of power from father to son - is traditionally frowned upon in Iran’s political and religious establishment.

Uncertainty Looms Over Iran’s Future Leadership

While speculation continues, Iran’s complex power structure means the final decision would likely depend on behind-the-scenes negotiations among senior clerics, political elites, and security institutions.

For now, the question of who will succeed Ali Khamenei remains open - but Mojtaba Khamenei’s name is firmly in the conversation.