Iran Assembly of Experts to Begin Process of Selecting Permanent Successor as Interim Leadership Council Takes Charge
Iran has officially appointed senior cleric as interim Supreme Leader following the reported death of in alleged joint US–Israeli airstrikes.
The appointment places Arafi at the helm of the Islamic Republic on a temporary basis, pending the selection of a permanent successor by the , the constitutional body responsible for appointing and supervising Iran’s Supreme Leader.
In line with Iran’s constitutional provisions, Arafi will serve as part of a three-member interim leadership council alongside President and Chief Justice . The council is mandated to collectively oversee the responsibilities of the Supreme Leader during the transition period to ensure continuity of governance.
A 67-year-old influential cleric, Arafi has long been embedded within Iran’s religious and political establishment. He previously served on the powerful , which plays a key role in vetting legislation and election candidates. His confirmation as part of the interim leadership structure was reportedly endorsed by the , the body that mediates disputes between major branches of government.
Arafi studied in , Iran’s leading seminary city, and attained the rank of mujtahid, granting him authority to issue independent Islamic legal rulings.
The leadership transition comes at a critical time for Iran amid heightened regional tensions and global scrutiny. Observers say the Assembly of Experts is expected to convene to deliberate on a permanent successor who will shape Iran’s domestic direction and foreign policy in the coming years.
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