WASHINGTON — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed doubts over Iran’s decision to elevate Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Watch What Really Happened.
To a top religious and political position, raising questions about the stability of the Islamic Republic’s leadership.
According to a report by The Times of Israel on March 9, 2026, Trump made the remarks during an interview with NBC, suggesting that Iranian authorities may have miscalculated strategically by promoting Mojtaba Khamenei.
“I don’t know if it’s going to last,” Trump said, adding that he believes the move could turn out to be a mistake. He expressed uncertainty about how long the new leader might remain in power and whether the decision would ultimately strengthen or weaken Iran’s political system.
Trump noted that the situation in Tehran could become complicated as different factions within Iran’s political and religious institutions respond to the leadership change. The development has drawn attention from governments and analysts worldwide, who are watching closely to see whether Mojtaba Khamenei can consolidate power and maintain unity within Iran’s leadership structure.
Trump also commented on speculation about potential U.S. responses, including economic or strategic measures such as targeting Iran’s oil resources. He said it would be premature to consider such actions but did not rule out the possibility that future circumstances could influence Washington’s approach toward Tehran.
His remarks underscore the close monitoring by U.S. policymakers and international observers of developments in Iran, particularly given the country’s influence on regional stability and the longstanding tensions between Iran and the United States.