Trump Says He Will Personally Shape Selection of Iran Next Leader, Calls Mojtaba Khamenei Unacceptable

President Donald Trump told Axios in an 8-minute phone call Thursday that he personally intends to play a role in choosing Iran next supreme leader, drawing a parallel to his approach in Venezuela. Trump identified Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the former Islamic Republic supreme leader, as the most likely successor but declared the prospect in no way acceptable to him. He called Mojtaba Khamenei a weak figure who is wasting their time. Trump said he wants someone who will bring coordination and peace to Iran.