Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei on his appointment as Iran’s new supreme leader, pledging Russia’s “unwavering support” as Tehran faces an escalating regional conflict.
The leadership transition followed the death of Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in recent US-Israeli airstrikes.
Iran’s Assembly of Experts, the powerful body responsible for selecting the country’s top leader, announced Mojtaba’s appointment shortly after midnight on Monday.
Mojtaba Khamenei had long been viewed as a potential successor despite holding no formal government office. He was chosen over other contenders including cleric Alireza Arafi, hardliner Mohsen Araki, and Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of Iran’s revolutionary founder.
According to the Kremlin, Putin said the new leader would continue his father’s legacy “with honour” and unite the Iranian people during a difficult period.
“I would like to reaffirm our unwavering support for Iran and solidarity with our Iranian friends,” Putin said in a message to Mojtaba Khamenei, according to Reuters.
“At a time when Iran is confronting armed aggression, your tenure in this high position will undoubtedly require great courage and dedication,” the Russian leader added.
Meanwhile, reports suggest Russia has been providing Tehran with real-time intelligence on the locations of American military assets in the Middle East, including warships and aircraft, potentially helping Iranian forces track US positions during the ongoing conflict.
The The Washington Post reported that three officials said Moscow had shared information on the locations of United States warships, aircraft and other military assets since the war began. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
