I must approve Iran’s next leader – Trump

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Trump

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By Favour Ulebor & agency report

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U.S. President Donald Trump has said he must be personally involved in the process of selecting a new leader for Iran.

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The comments came in an interview with Axios on Thursday as Iran remains in political turmoil following the death of its Supreme Leader.

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Trump acknowledged that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is widely seen as the likely successor.

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“They are wasting their time. Khamenei’s son is a lightweight. I have to be involved in the appointment, like with Delcy [Rodríguez] in Venezuela.

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“Khamenei son is unacceptable to me. We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran.”

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Trump drew a comparison to Venezuela, where Delcy Rodríguez became leader after U.S. strikes led to the removal of then‑President Nicolás Maduro.

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It is still unclear who is officially in charge in Iran.

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Days after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death, a building housing members of the clerical council responsible for choosing the next supreme leader was bombed while votes were being counted, according to reports.

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The situation in Iran remains highly unstable, and Trump’s comments could affect ongoing efforts to stabilise the country and end conflict in the region.

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