Trump says Iran’s new Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘won’t live in peace’, calls appointment ‘unacceptable’

Mojtaba Khamenei, the 56-year-old son of the late Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, was recently chosen to lead the Islamic Republic, a move that has drawn sharp reactions from Washington.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Trump said he was unhappy with Iran’s choice of leader. “I’m not happy about it. I don’t believe he can live in peace,” the US president said.

Trump also argued that the United States should have a say in selecting Iran’s next leader, referring to what he described as past American involvement in leadership matters in countries such as Venezuela.

In a separate interview with Axios, Trump called Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment “unacceptable” and said he would prefer a leader who could bring “harmony and peace to Iran”.

“They are wasting their time. Khamenei’s son is a lightweight,” Trump said, warning that installing someone who continues his father’s policies could push the US back into conflict with Iran within five years.

In remarks to ABC News on Sunday, Trump went further, suggesting that the new Iranian leader would need Washington’s approval to remain in power.

“He’s going to have to get approval from us. If he doesn’t get approval from us, he’s not going to last long,” Trump said.

Meanwhile, analysts say Mojtaba Khamenei’s elevation signals the consolidation of power by hardline factions in Iran.

Experts believe the move indicates that ultraconservative elements within the Iranian leadership intend to maintain their current political and military stance despite growing tensions with the United States and Israel.