Tehran: Iran’s Assembly of Experts has reached a "majority consensus" on a successor to the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, though the body has withheld the individual's name amid security concerns and ongoing regional conflict, as per reports.

The 88-member clerical body finalised the decision during a series of emergency sessions, some held online due to recent airstrikes in the city of Qom. While the choice remains officially confidential, senior members indicated Sunday that the selection is complete.

"The most suitable candidate, approved by the majority of the Assembly of Experts, has been determined," said Ayatollah Mohsen Heidari Alekasir in a video released by state-affiliated media. He added that the chosen figure is someone "hated by the enemy," specifically referencing recent criticisms from the United States.

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Mojtaba Khamenei Emerges as Front-Runner

Despite the lack of a formal announcement, high-ranking sources and international analysts point to Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of the late leader, as the most likely successor. The 56-year-old has long operated within the regime's security inner circle and maintains deep ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The selection process has been accelerated by the "Operation Epic Fury" campaign, which has seen repeated strikes on Iranian military and political infrastructure. Interim leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, continues to manage state affairs during the transition.

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Internal Dissent and Security Risks

The choice of the younger Khamenei is not without controversy. Some Assembly members have reportedly warned that a hereditary succession could trigger public backlash, drawing parallels to the monarchy toppled in 1979.

Security remains the primary reason for the secrecy. Israeli officials have warned that any named successor would become a primary target for assassination. The Assembly is expected to maintain the "secret" status of the appointment until a formal inauguration can be safely conducted.