CONFLICTED Who is Iran's New Supreme Leader and What Does He Believe?
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Mar 10, 2026 They unpack Mojtaba Khamenei’s rise from teenage wartime fighter to Tehran’s power broker. They explore his control of access, security ties, and vast financial networks. They trace medieval Shia apocalyptic myths, the Khurasani figure, and how prophecy maps onto modern actors across the region. They examine how eschatological belief shapes Iranian politics and regional conflict.
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Soleimani's Public Deference To Mujtaba
- Aimen Dean recounts a visit where Qasem Soleimani refused to let Mujtaba kiss his head, insisting instead on kissing Mujtaba's head to show respect.
- The moment illustrated Soleimani's deference and MK's stature within IRGC circles.
Three Pillars Behind MK's Rise
- MK built three pillars of power: centrality in the supreme leader's office, deep ties to Iran's security apparatus, and control over extensive financial patronage networks.
- Thomas Small highlights the IRGC backing stems from MK's security links and illicit finance described in Bloomberg reporting.
Khums And Shadow Finance Fuel Influence
- MK oversaw an illicit financial ecosystem using charities (al-Khums), shell companies and agents to channel global Shia donations into assets and covert funding.
- Aimen Dean cites an estimate of ~$75 billion in annual khums contributions that feed transnational networks.