Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei, 85, Reportedly Has Terminal Cancer; Son Mojtaba Seen as Successor

Oct 26, 2024, 08:03 PM

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 85, is reportedly seriously ill with a terminal illness, according to reports attributed to the New York Times. Khamenei, who has led Iran since 1989, is believed to be suffering from advanced cancer. Discussions about his succession have reportedly begun, with his second oldest son, Mojtaba Khamenei, 55, considered a likely successor. The powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is expected to have significant influence over the decision and is viewed as more willing to confront Israel. U.S. officials believe that Khamenei's health has been declining since at least 2019.