Mojtaba was not the most likely candidate just a few months ago. It's probably that the violent murder of his father significantly increased his chances. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/04/mojtaba-khamenei-son-of-former-supreme-leader-tipped-to-become-irans-next-head-of-state
Mojtaba Khamenei, son of former supreme leader, tipped to become Iran’s next head of state

Choice of anti-western candidate would give signal that senior figures will not seek accommodation with US

The Guardian