'They're Wasting Their Time': Trump Says He Must Be Involved In Picking Iran's Next Leader

Last Updated:March 05, 2026, 22:02 IST

Donald Trump acknowledged that Khamenei's son was the likely successor, but called this outcome unacceptable and demanded to be personally involved in the selection.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday told Axios that he needs to be personally involved in selecting Iran’s next leader – just like he was in Venezuela – after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump acknowledged that Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Khamenei, is the most likely successor, but made it clear that he finds the outcome unacceptable. “They are wasting their time. Khamenei’s son is a lightweight. I have to be involved in the appointment, like with Delcy [Rodriguez] in Venezuela," he said.

This is a developing story. More details to be added.

News world 'They're Wasting Their Time': Trump Says He Must Be Involved In Picking Iran's Next Leader

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