Putin supports Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei; Trump raises strong objection
Tehran/Moscow : Amid ongoing war in the Middle East, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his strong support for Iran’s new supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. Mojtaba Khamenei assumed power after the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during attacks by the United States and Israel.
Putin’s message: Russia is a reliable partner
In a direct message sent to Mojtaba Khamenei, President Putin said, “I confirm our unwavering support for Tehran and our solidarity with the Iranian people.”
Putin emphasised that Russia will always remain a reliable partner of Iran. He also said that Mojtaba’s leadership would require courage and dedication, especially at a time when Iran is facing armed aggression.
Donald Trump’s strong reaction
Putin’s statement stands in sharp contrast to the position taken by US President Donald Trump. Even before Mojtaba’s appointment, Trump had described his leadership as “unacceptable.”
Trump had earlier warned that if the new Iranian leader does not receive approval from the United States, he may not remain in power for long. However, by Monday, Trump appeared to soften his tone slightly, saying only, “Let’s see what happens.”
Who is Mojtaba Khamenei?
Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, is the second eldest son of the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei. For decades, he remained largely away from the public spotlight.
He is now taking charge at a time when Iran’s leadership is facing one of the biggest crises in its nearly 50-year history.
War enters a new and dangerous phase
The war, which has been continuing for the past nine days, is now entering a more dangerous phase. On Monday, the Israeli military carried out fresh strikes in central Iran and targeted Hezbollah positions in Beirut.
Earlier, Israel had also attacked oil depots in Tehran. In response, Iran has intensified attacks on Israel and on countries that host US military bases.
In a recent strike in Saudi Arabia, two foreign nationals — including one Indian citizen — were killed, signalling that the conflict may be expanding across the region.
