One Decision “The IRGC Got Their Man”: Former UK Defense Minister and Ex-MI6 Chief on Mojtaba Khamenei’s Ascent
35 snips
Mar 10, 2026 
Sir Ben Wallace, former UK Defence Secretary and long-time chair of the British–Iran Parliamentary Group, offers a regional security perspective. He discusses Mojtaba Khamenei’s succession and the IRGC’s hold on power. Short takes cover Gulf states’ economic and political anxieties, drone escalation risks, and the wider energy and European security fallout.
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IRGC Secured A Hardline Successor
- Mojtaba Khamenei's appointment signals a hardline consolidation led by the IRGC.
- Sir Ben Wallace and Sir Richard Dearlove explain Mojtaba is the IRGC's preferred successor and will likely continue intransigent policy.
IRGC Operates As A Business Enrichment Cartel
- The IRGC functions as a political and commercial enrichment cartel inside Iran.
- Sir Richard Dearlove and Sir Ben Wallace note Mojtaba acted as his father's business manager and IRGC members profit from sanctions and smuggling.
Emirati Business Leader Publicly Rebuked Iran
- Emirati businessman Khalaf Ahmad Al-Habtour publicly blamed Iran and US actions for regional escalation.
- Rosanna Lockwood cites his statement rejecting outside protection and condemning lack of consultation over the conflict.