Iran names hardliner Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader, signals confrontation

• Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, son of late Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, named Iran's third Leader by Assembly of Experts.
• Described as more hardline than his father, his appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Islamic Republic.
• Born in Mashhad, Mojtaba Khamenei is an Iran-Iraq War veteran and pursued advanced religious studies in Qom.
• Maintained a low public profile, played a behind-the-scenes role, and was sanctioned by the US Treasury in 2019.
• Analysts suggest his choice signals Iran's rejection of compromise, opting for confrontation, revenge, and endurance.