Iran Denies Foreign Interference in Supreme Leader Appointment

TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has emphatically rejected any foreign interference in the country’s selection of its new supreme leader, emphasizing that such matters are strictly within the purview of Iran. The appointment of the supreme leader is a domestic affair, he stated, speaking to Arab media.

Araghchi’s comments come after reports indicated there might be foreign influence in the process. Instead, he reiterated that attacks on American targets have been a legitimate act of self-defense. Araghchi underscored that Iran did not initiate the war but was compelled into it by outside forces.

Simultaneously, Iranian military cooperation with Russia continues to be an integral part of the two countries’ strategic partnership. While some obstacles remain regarding the process of selecting the next supreme leader, a clerical body has reached a majority consensus. According to Assembly of Experts member Ayatollah Mohammadmehdi Mirbaqeri, some issues still need to be resolved.

Members of the panel that will select Iran’s new supreme leader have also shared their preliminary findings. Two members—Ayatollahs Mohsen Heidari Alekasir and Ahmad Alamolhoda—have stated they’ve chosen a successor. Alamolhoda disclosed that Hashem Hosseini Bushehri, head of the assembly’s secretariat, would be responsible for announcing their decision.

Iranian media outlets have reported minor differences within the group over whether in-person meetings are necessary to issue their final selection or if this process can be bypassed. The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue on both foreign and domestic fronts.