Are Iranian officials planning to replace Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei? Details of coup here

Following the recent airstrikes by the United States and Israel, reports have emerged that some Iranian officials are discussing the possibility of removing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The discussions involve multiple high-level figures from within the country, as per media reports.

Internal Plots Against Khamenei

A group of Iranian officials, including businessmen, military personnel, political leaders and clerics, are reportedly planning to replace Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, The Atlantic report said citing sources. These discussions are still in the early stages. A source described it as just one of many plots forming within Tehran as of now. Officials believe Khamenei is losing influence and may not remain in control even if he keeps his position, the report said.

The sources claim the situation in Tehran has changed after the airstrikes. Some say the strikes have increased the chances of removing Khamenei, though others warn that events could go in the opposite direction.


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Barriers to Removing Supreme Leader

Iran's Assembly of Experts holds the authority to remove the Supreme Leader. However, organizing a vote requires stability, which is hard to achieve while airstrikes continue. As a result, even though some want to begin the process, it may not happen soon.

Possible Role for Hassan Rouhani

Former President Hassan Rouhani is being considered for a future role, though sources confirm he is not involved in current discussions. There is disagreement among the group. Some want to reach out to US President Donald Trump, while others want a strong reaction to the recent strikes, the report said.

Also Read: Can Iran still get nuclear warheads? Russia’s Dmitriy Medvedev says US strikes may backfire as Iran may now begin nuclear weapons production

Security Measures and Leadership Concerns

Earlier reports from The New York Times said that Khamenei had limited all electronic communication. He now communicates through a trusted aide. This step was taken out of concern for his safety. Some Iranian officials believe Israeli intelligence may have penetrated Iran’s security structure. Khamenei has reportedly named three senior clerics as potential successors in case he is killed.

FAQs

Who is involved in the plan to remove Khamenei?
A group of Iranian businessmen, political leaders, clerics, and military officials is reportedly planning the move, according to sources cited in media reports.

What is preventing Khamenei’s removal right now?
Tehran is under airstrikes, and organizing a formal vote through the Assembly of Experts is difficult under current security and political conditions.