U.S. President Donald Trump said he believes he should play a role in selecting Iran’s next leader following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In an interview with Axios on Thursday, Trump dismissed speculation that Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely to succeed his father.
“Khamenei’s son is a lightweight,” Trump said. “I have to be involved in the appointment.”
Trump warned that any new leader who continues the previous administration’s policies could risk renewed conflict with the United States within five years.
“We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” he added.
The president claimed Iran was “wasting its time” if it tried to select a successor without U.S. engagement.
He did not elaborate on how he would participate in the succession process or what mechanisms might allow U.S. influence.
Trump’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran, as well as his continued focus on foreign policy issues even after leaving office.
Analysts say his comments could further complicate U.S.-Iran relations amid regional instability and ongoing international scrutiny of Iran’s political transition.
