Trump Says He Should Personally Choose Iran's Next Supreme Leader, Rejects Mojtaba Khamenei

President Donald Trump told Axios that he should have personal involvement in selecting Iran's next supreme leader, drawing a parallel to his role in Venezuela's leadership transition. Trump also stated that he would not accept Mojtaba Khamenei — son of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei — as Iran's next leader. The remarks signal US intent to shape Iran's post-conflict political future and represent a direct assertion of American influence over the country's leadership succession.