Third Leader of Iran

Third Leader of Iran is the title of an article that discusses the messages and reactions of personalities from the Islamic world to the appointment and introduction of the third leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.

Third Leader of the Islamic Revolution

Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei is the second child of the martyred Imam (Seyyed Ali Khamenei) and was born in September 1969 (Shahrivar 1348 AH solar) in the holy city of Mashhad. His childhood until 1978 (1357 AH solar) was spent mostly in Mashhad, Qom, and Tehran, but partly also in deprived areas such as Sistan and Baluchestan due to his father's exile. He completed his primary and secondary education in Mashhad and Tehran. At the age of 17, while still a student, he first put on combat uniform and went to the fronts of right against wrong. During his combat years, under the name Seyyed Mostafa Hosseini and as an anonymous Basiji, he served in the Mohammad Rasulullah (PBUH) and Seyyed al-Shohada divisions. Except for some commanders, no one knew he was the son of the President of Islamic Iran. He participated in several operations, including Beit ol-Moqaddas 2, 3, and 4, Valfajr 10, and Operation Mersad. According to commanders – including the brave and veteran commander Ali Fazli, then commander of Seyyed al-Shohada Division – he was one of the courageous, risk-taking, and very humble individuals.

Political dimension of the new leader's personality

Like many other clerics, he had an independent political personality and did not join any political party or group, but he is a person who is informed about politics and possesses political insight. For this reason, he served as a sincere assistant and advisor to his martyred father, accompanying him and learning the methods of leadership of the Islamic nation. It is hoped that his leadership will mark a new chapter in pursuing the lofty ideals of the two previous leaders of the revolution, and that the great grace of the Almighty and the last divine proof, Imam of the Age (may Allah hasten his noble advent), will include him and the God-seeking and Velayat-oriented people of Islamic Iran.

Media reaction

The selection of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei as the third leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran topped the news of regional Arabic media. Most Arabic media described this development as a historic event and a sign of "continued stability and cohesion in the political structure of the Islamic Republic of Iran".

▪️ Al-Mayadeen news network – In a detailed report, it considered the selection of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as an important event in the continuation of the path of the Imam and leadership of the Islamic Revolution, writing that this selection, with the full consensus of the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership, conveyed Tehran's message of political stability to the region.

▪️ Al Jazeera – In its report, referring to the special position of the leader in the Islamic Republic system, wrote: "The selection of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new leader of Iran ushers in a new chapter of continued legitimacy and cohesion in Iran's power structure."

▪️ Asharq Al-Awsat – In a report focusing on the regional dimension of this development, wrote: "Riyadh and its Arab allies are closely following developments in Tehran, and the selection of a new leader could create a new path for Iran's regional interactions."

▪️ Al-Joumhouria (Lebanon) – Referring to Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei's position in the Qom Seminary, described this selection as "natural and consistent with the traditional power structure in the Islamic Republic of Iran."

▪️ Rai al-Youm – While addressing domestic reactions in Iran, emphasized that the widespread welcome of various Iranian political currents to this selection indicates "intra-system convergence."

▪️ In Iraqi media, including Al-Sumaria News and Al-Furat News Agency, this development was reflected with a focus on "political stability and the continuation of the Axis of Resistance."

▪️ Egyptian media such as Al-Ahram and Al-Youm Al-Sabe’ – Quoting international news agencies, assessed this event as one of the most important political developments in the Middle East region in recent years.

First message of the Leader of the Muslims

The first message of Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Template:Text Quran Al-salamu ‘alayka ya da‘iya Allah wa rabbaniya ayatih. Al-salamu ‘alayka ya baba Allah wa dayyana dinih. Al-salamu ‘alayka ya khalifata Allah wa nasira haqqih. Al-salamu ‘alayka ya hujjata Allah wa dalila iradatih. Al-salamu ‘alayka ayyuha al-muqaddamu al-ma’mul. Al-salamu ‘alayka bi-jawami‘ al-salam. Al-salamu ‘alayka ya mawlaya sahiba al-zaman.

At the beginning of my speech, I extend my condolences to my master (may Allah hasten his noble advent) on the heartbreaking martyrdom of the great leader of the revolution, the dear and wise Khamenei, and I ask him to pray for all the great nation of Iran, indeed for all the Muslims of the world, and for all servants of Islam and the revolution, for the self-sacrificers and the survivors of the martyrs of the Islamic movement – especially the recent war – and also for this humble servant.

The second part of my speech is addressed to the great nation of Iran. Firstly, I must briefly state my position regarding the vote of the respected Assembly of Experts. This servant of yours, Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, was informed of the result of the respected Assembly of Experts' vote at the same time as you, through the broadcast of the Islamic Republic. For me, sitting in the place where two immensely great leaders – the Great Khomeini and the martyred Khamenei – once sat is a difficult task, because this seat has a history of being occupied by someone who, after more than sixty years of struggling in the way of God and sacrificing all kinds of pleasures and comforts, became a radiant jewel and an outstanding figure not only in the present age but throughout the history of this country's rulers. Both his life and his manner of death were intertwined with glory and dignity derived from relying on the Truth.

I had the honor of visiting his body after his martyrdom; what I saw was a mountain of fortitude, and I heard that his healthy fist was clenched. Regarding the various aspects of his personality, those who know must speak for a long time. In this brief space, I suffice with this brevity and leave the details for other appropriate occasions. This is the reason for the difficulty of occupying the leadership seat after such a person. Bridging this gap is possible only by seeking help from the Almighty and your support, O people.

Continuing, I must emphasize a point that is directly related to my main message: that among the arts of the martyred leader and his great predecessor was involving the people in all arenas, constantly giving them insight and awareness, and in practice relying on their strength. In this way, he actualized the true meaning of the republic and republicanism, and he believed in it from the depths of his soul. The clear effect of this was seen in the past few days when the country was without a leader and without a commander-in-chief. The insight and intelligence of the great nation of Iran in the recent event, and their steadfastness, courage, and presence, made friends admire and enemies astonished. It was you, the people, who led the country and guaranteed its authority.

The verse I placed at the beginning of this writing means that there is no sign of God’s signs whose time has expired or that is forgotten, without the Almighty (glorious and exalted) giving a better or similar one in its place. The relevance of using this noble verse is not that this servant is at the level of the martyred leader, let alone that I be considered superior to him. Rather, the reason for mentioning the blessed verse is to draw attention to the appropriate and prominent role of you, the dear nation. If that supreme blessing was taken from us, in its place the ‘Omran-like presence of the Iranian nation was once again granted to this system. Know this: if your power does not appear on the scene, neither the Leader nor any of the various institutions – whose real dignity lies in serving the people – will have the necessary effectiveness.

For this meaning to be better realized, first, remembrance of God Almighty, trust in Him, and seeking intercession from the pure lights of the Infallibles (peace be upon them all) must be regarded as the greatest elixir and philosopher’s stone that guarantees all kinds of openings and decisive victory over the enemy. This is a great advantage that you possess and your enemies lack.

Secondly, the unity among the various segments of the nation – which usually finds a special manifestation in times of hardship – must not be compromised. This will be achieved by setting aside points of disagreement.

Thirdly, effective presence on the scene must be maintained – whether in the form you showed in these days and nights of war, or in the form of all kinds of effective roles in various social, political, educational, cultural, and even security arenas. What matters is that the correct role, without harming social unity, be properly understood and implemented as much as possible. One of the duties of the Leader and some other officials is to remind society’s individuals and groups of some of these roles. Therefore, I remind you of the importance of attending the Quds Day 1447 ceremony, where the enemy-breaking element must be the focus of everyone’s attention.

Fourthly, do not neglect helping and supporting one another. Thank God, the habitual character of most Iranians has been nothing but this, and it is expected that in these special days – which are naturally harder on some segments of the nation than others – this matter should be more manifest. In this brief space, I ask the service apparatuses not to withhold any kind of aid and assistance to those dear segments of the nation and to popular relief structures in this regard.

If these aspects are observed, the path for you, the dear nation, to reach days of greatness and glory will be smoothed. The nearest example, God willing, can be victory over the enemy in the current war.

The third part of my speech is a sincere thank you to our brave combatants who, in a situation where our nation and dear homeland have been attacked in a victimized manner by the heads of the arrogance front, have blocked the enemy’s path with their crushing blows and removed the enemy from the delusion of being able to dominate our dear homeland and possibly partition it. Dear combatant brothers! The desire of the masses of the people is the continuation of effective and regret-inducing defense. Also, the instrument of closing the Strait of Hormuz must certainly continue to be used. Regarding opening other fronts in which the enemy has little experience and will be severely vulnerable, studies have been conducted, and their activation will take place if the state of war continues and according to considerations of expediency.

I also sincerely thank the combatants of the Resistance front. We consider the countries of the Resistance front to be our best friends, and the matter of resistance and the Resistance front is an inseparable part of the values of the Islamic Revolution. Undoubtedly, the cooperation of the components of this front with one another will shorten the path to deliverance from the Zionist sedition, just as we saw that brave and faithful Yemen did not stop defending the oppressed people of Gaza, and self-sacrificing Hezbollah, despite all obstacles, has come to the aid of the Islamic Republic, and the Iraqi resistance has courageously followed the same line.

In the fourth part, I address those who have been harmed in some way in these past few days – whether those who have experienced the loss of a dear martyr or martyrs, those who have been injured, or those whose homes and businesses have been damaged.

In this part, first, I express my deep sympathy to the survivors of the high-ranking martyrs. This is based on a shared experience I have with these honorable people. In addition to my father, whose loss has become a public matter, I have entrusted to the caravan of martyrs my dear and faithful wife, in whom I had hopes, my self-sacrificing sister who devoted herself to serving her parents and ultimately received her reward, along with her young child, and my other sister’s husband, who was a knowledgeable and noble person. However, what makes patience in the face of afflictions possible and even easy is attention to God’s certain and definite promise of a precious reward for the patient. Therefore, we must be patient and have hope and trust in the grace and assistance of the Almighty (glorious and exalted).

Secondly, I assure everyone that we will not overlook avenging the blood of your martyrs. The revenge we have in mind is not only for the martyrdom of the great leader of the revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy is itself an independent case for revenge. Of course, a limited amount of this revenge has been actualized so far, but until it is fully achieved, this case will remain open over other cases, and we will be especially sensitive regarding the blood of our children. Therefore, the crime the enemy deliberately committed against the "Shajareh Tayyebeh Minab School" and some similar cases has a special status in this investigation.

Thirdly, the veterans of these attacks must receive appropriate free medical treatment and benefit from some other privileges. Fourthly, as much as the current situation permits, adequate measures must be defined and implemented to compensate for the financial damages caused to places and personal property. These last two are binding duties for the respected officials, who must implement them and report to me.

A point I must remind you of is that in any case, we will take compensation from the enemy, and if it refuses, we will take as much of its property as we deem fit, and if that is not possible, we will destroy the same amount of its property.

The fifth part of my speech is addressed to the leaders and influential ranks in some countries of the region. We have fifteen land or sea neighboring countries, and we have always been and are willing to have warm and constructive relations with all of them. However, the enemy has gradually over many years established bases – both military and financial – in some of these countries to secure its dominance over the region. In the recent attack, some military bases were used, and naturally, as we had clearly warned, without attacking those countries, we only struck those bases. From now on, we will inevitably continue this action, although we still believe in the necessity of friendship between us and those neighbors. These countries must clarify their position regarding the aggressors against our dear homeland and the murderers of our people. I advise them to close those bases as soon as possible, because they must have understood by now that America’s claim of establishing security and peace was nothing but a lie. This will cause them to find a stronger bond with their own peoples – who are generally dissatisfied with accompanying the infidel front and its humiliating behavior – and will increase their wealth and power. I repeat: the Islamic Republic system, without wishing to establish domination or colonialism in the region, is fully prepared for unity and warm, sincere mutual relations with all neighbors.

In the sixth part of my speech, I address our martyred leader. O Leader! Your departure has placed a heavy grief on everyone’s hearts. You were always eager for this end, until the Almighty finally granted it to you while you were reciting the Holy Quran on the morning of the tenth of Ramadan al-Mubarak. You endured many oppressions with power and forbearance and did not flinch. Many did not recognize your true worth, and perhaps a long time will pass before the various veils and obstacles are removed and aspects of it become known. We hope that from the station of nearness to God that has been prepared for you alongside the pure lights, the truthful, the martyrs, and the saints, you will still think of the progress of this nation and all the nations of the Resistance front and intercede for them, just as you did in your worldly life. We make a covenant with you to strive with all our being for the elevation of this flag – which is the main flag of the front of truth – and for the attainment of your sacred goals.

In the seventh part, I thank all the honorable ones who have supported me, including the grand religious authorities (maraji‘), various cultural, political, and social figures, and the masses of people who have appeared in glorious gatherings to renew their allegiance to the system, as well as the officials of the three branches and the temporary leadership council for their good measures and actions.

I hope that the special divine favors in these blessed hours and days will include all the people of Iran and indeed all Muslims and the oppressed of the world. Finally, I ask our master (may Allah hasten his noble advent) to ask the Almighty (glorious and exalted) for our nation a decisive victory over the enemy, as well as honor, abundance, and well‑being, and for their deceased, high stations and otherworldly well‑being during the remainder of the nights and days of power (layali al‑qadr) and the blessed month of Ramadan.

Peace be upon you, and the mercy of God, His blessings, and His greetings. Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei 11 March 2026 (21 Esfand 1404 AH solar) corresponding to 22 Ramadan al‑Mubarak 1447 AH lunar

Messages

Message of Grand Ayatollah Nouri Hamedani

Message of the grand religious authority (marja‘), Grand Ayatollah Nouri Hamedani:

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful His Eminence Ayatollah Mr. Haj Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei – may his blessings endure

Peace be upon you.

With congratulations and condolences on the martyrdom of the martyred leader of the Islamic Revolution and a number of the brave commanders of Islam as well as a number of defenseless people, I thank Almighty God that the nation’s experts (khubra), as the trustees of the Islamic nation, considering all necessary conditions and criteria, and undoubtedly with the special favor of the Remnant of God, the Supreme (may Allah hasten his noble advent), have introduced your eminence – who possesses all the necessary conditions for undertaking the grave responsibility of leadership, including jurisprudential knowledge, courage, piety, awareness of the times, management and prudence, as well as deep commitment to the path and school of the great Imam Khomeini and the martyred leader (may God’s pleasure be upon them both) – as the leader of the sacred system of the Islamic Republic of Iran, thus once again disappointing and frustrating the enemies of this nation. I, while appreciating this worthy and wise choice of the Assembly of Experts, emphasize the necessity of adhering to and fully obeying the principle of Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist (Velayat-e Faqih) as the fundamental pillar and sturdy column of the Islamic Revolution, and I ask all the Islamic nation, especially the faithful, dear, and revolutionary people of Iran, as well as the trustworthy and serving officials, to move with insight and empathy behind the Supreme Leader of the Revolution and, by preserving unity and cohesion around the axis of Velayat-e Faqih, continue the honorable path of the Islamic Revolution with firmness and steadfastness. In conclusion, I ask Almighty God for a long life accompanied by health and well-being and increasing success in serving Islam and the Muslims for your eminence.

Message of Grand Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi

Message of Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi to Ayatollah Imam Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as the leader of the Islamic Revolution

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

The noble people of Iran and the devotees of the Islamic Revolution;

Thank God, the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership in the current sensitive period, with a timely decision, fulfilled its religious and legal duty. This assembly, after examining the indicators, elected Grand Ayatollah Mr. Haj Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei (may God preserve him) as the third leader of the Islamic Revolution and completed the argument for everyone.

Now it is fitting that the dear people and the pillars of the system, by pledging allegiance to this most suitable choice, continue the luminous path of the revolution with unity and perseverance until final victory.

I, while again offering condolences on the martyrdom of the late leader of the revolution, the commanders, the dear people, and the oppressed children and women, to the dear Leader and the noble people of Iran, congratulate this choice and ask Almighty God for victory, honor, and pride for Islamic Iran and humiliation for the enemies.

Peace and God's mercy and blessings be upon you. Qom – Naser Makarem Shirazi 9 March 2026 (18 Esfand 1404 AH solar)

Message of Grand Ayatollah Sistani

Message of Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Sistani on the occasion of the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran

The text of his eminence’s message is as follows:

With profound sorrow, I offer my condolences for the martyrdom of the high-ranking leader of the Islamic Republic, Grand Ayatollah Mr. Khamenei (may God’s pleasure be upon him), to the noble people of Iran and all Muslims of the world.

The lofty station of that great figure and his unique role in steering the system of the Islamic Republic over many years is clear to everyone.

Undoubtedly, the enemies, by martyring him and launching a widespread military aggression on the country, seek to strike at dear Iran. The great nation of this land is expected, in these difficult and sensitive circumstances, to preserve national unity and cohesion and not allow the aggressors to achieve their evil goals.

I ask Almighty God for that blessed departed one a high station and divine pleasure, and for all the bereaved, beautiful patience and a great reward.

Message of the Chairman of the Expediency Discernment Council

Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani, Chairman of the Expediency Discernment Council, in a message congratulated the election of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new leader of the Islamic Revolution of Iran. Excerpts from the congratulatory message of Ayatollah Amoli Larijani are as follows:

The martyrdom of the jihadist Imam and wise leader of the revolution, Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei (may God purify his pure soul), was a great loss for Islam and a painful tragedy for the Islamic nation. That immensely great martyr spent his blessed life in elevating the word of monotheism, guiding the nation, and leading the system through difficult passes, and he received his reward with martyrdom, meeting God, and enjoyment of continuous sustenance from God.

This timely choice, which took place at the most sensitive historical juncture and during the battle with American terrorists and criminal Zionists, despite the enemy’s propaganda and threats, has been a balm for the spiritual pains of our dear people and an emphasis on the necessity of continuing the luminous path of the Imam of the revolution and the high-ranking martyrs.

I hope that the resistance and steadfastness of the insightful Iranian nation, under the wisdom and prudence of the cultured, enemy‑aware leader elected by the Assembly of Experts, will continue, and that this time as well, the conspiracies of the arrogant powers and their insolent threats will be foiled by the unity of the nation.

Message of the President of Iran

Message of Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian on the election of Grand Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei

Believing in God’s promises, your blessed election as the third leader of the sacred system of the Islamic Republic, with the decisive and intelligent vote of the representatives of the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership as the successor to the high-ranking martyr and wise man of the age, Grand Ayatollah Imam Khamenei, will herald a new era of honor and authority for the Iranian nation.

This valuable choice is a manifestation of the Islamic nation’s will in consolidating national unity – a unity that, like a firm dam, has made the Iranian nation resistant to the conspiracies of the enemies. The achievements of your great martyred father in preserving the system and elevating the revolution have provided a strong foundation for Iran’s future, and under your leadership, it will reach a bright horizon of lasting independence, scientific and technological progress, and comprehensive development – a horizon in which progress, social justice, and global dignity will bear the sweet fruits of this unity and prudence.

Islamic Iran has shown throughout its history that it withstands hardships and, relying on collective wisdom, faith, and continuous effort, passes through the most difficult obstacles. Today, relying on these valuable assets and utilizing the abilities of all elites with diverse tastes, the brave youth, and the dedicated managers of the country, despite the savage and open aggression of the Zionist regime and criminal America, with the wisdom and groundwork laid by our martyred leader and the exemplary resistance of the noble Iranian nation and the determination and will of the self‑sacrificing and courageous armed forces of Iran, it will facilitate efficiency and progress. Undoubtedly, overcoming current problems will be possible with your wise leadership and by creating an atmosphere based on trust, empathy, participation, and widespread resistance of the people. From the threshold of the Almighty, I ask for your eminence’s success and honor in safeguarding this sacred unity and building a progressive and independent Iran.

Message of the Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly

Following the election of Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei (may his shadow last long) by the Assembly of Experts as the third leader of the Islamic Republic, the Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly congratulated this worthy appointment in a message. The text of Dr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf’s message is as follows:

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The solid and precise decision of the respected Assembly of Experts in electing Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei (may his shadow last long) was a soothing balm on the grave loss of our leader and mentor dearer than our lives, making the hearts of the people of Iran and the believers happy and shattering the last hopes of the enemies of dear Iran.

The Iranian nation, thanks to God and with the grace of the Master of the Age (may God hasten his advent), has been blessed with a faithful, pious, revolutionary, popular, courageous, managerially sound, prudent, time‑aware, enemy‑aware, and simple‑living leader; he is a man of virtue and knowledge, master of current and governmental affairs, a modernist believer in the second‑step approach of the revolution and knowledge‑based, science‑based fields, and he bears the medal of honor of being the son, brother, and spouse of martyrs. Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei is indeed the shadow of our martyred leader, and he will steer the ship of the revolution with strength on the path of the two Imams of the revolution toward a prosperous, advanced, and integrated Iran.

I congratulate this blessed choice to the proud and martyr‑raising nation of Iran, all Muslims of the world, and the lovers of justice and freedom, and I consider it my duty to thank the respected Assembly of Experts for this wise and appropriate choice, to announce my obedience to the orders of his eminence, and to remind all dear people of Iran of the will of the Imam of the revolution: "Support the Guardian Jurist so that no harm reaches your country." We consider this position to be the representation of our master the Master of the Age (may God hasten his noble advent), and in accompanying and obeying this Guardian Jurist of the time, we make no distinction between his eminence and our great Imam and our martyred Imam, and we consider this duty a definite religious and national obligation.

The Assembly of Experts fulfilled its duty in the best manner and under difficult war conditions, in the shortest possible time, and from now on it is the duty of all officials and the people to gather in preserving the blood of the martyrs of the revolution – especially the master of the martyrs of Islamic Iran, Grand Ayatollah Imam Khamenei – and in preserving the ideals of the Islamic Revolution and strengthening Islamic Iran, with cohesion and unity around this firm axis, and to powerfully advance the path of the two Imams of the revolution and realize the greatness and dignity of Islamic Iran. Under the attention of the Master of the Age (may God hasten his advent), I ask for the continuance of success for the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution.

Statement of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful O you who have believed, obey God and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. (Qur’an 4:59) The noble and faithful nation of Islamic Iran; We congratulate the election of the general deputy of the Imam of the Age (may Allah hasten his noble advent), the leader and guardian jurist of the Islamic Revolution and the sacred system of the Islamic Republic of Iran by the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership after the martyrdom of the second wise leader of the Islamic Revolution, Grand Ayatollah Imam Khamenei (may God’s mercy be upon him) – who led the revolution and the Islamic system through historic passes with wisdom, power, and integrity for 37 years – and we thank Almighty God for the supreme blessing of guardianship (velayat). We congratulate the election of the qualified jurist, young thinker, and most knowledgeable in political and social affairs, His Eminence Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei, and we announce our respect, devotion, and obedience to the choice of the Assembly of Experts. This election is a new dawn and the beginning of a new stage in the revolution and the Islamic Republic, making the painful sunset of the immensely great leader Grand Ayatollah Imam Khamenei bearable for the Iranian nation and the Islamic community. The election of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution with the decisive opinion of the majority of the expert jurists, with sufficient precision and solidity and in the current complex situation, has proven to everyone that the movement of the Islamic system does not stop and that the revolution and the Islamic system are not dependent on any individual. Certainly, the Guardian Jurist of the time and the architect of the monotheistic society will, with a growing and progressive management, move and guide the country and the revolution through difficult passes toward the lofty goals of the sacred Islamic system. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as a soldier and powerful arm of the Guardianship, while supporting the choice of the respected Assembly of Experts of the Leadership, is ready to fully obey and sacrifice for the divine orders of the Guardian Jurist of the time, Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei, and to preserve the values of the Islamic Revolution and protect the precious heritage of the two Imams of the revolution, Imam Khomeini (may God’s pleasure be upon him) and Imam Khamenei (may God’s mercy be upon him). It is necessary at this sensitive historical juncture that all segments of society and those concerned with Islamic Iran take to heart the divine command of Imam Khomeini (may God’s pleasure be upon him) that "Support the Guardian Jurist so that no harm reaches your country," and with their magnificent and epic presence in defending the Guardian Jurist, the system, and the Islamic Revolution, take steps on the path to completing the victories and triumphs of Islamic Iran over all the bloodthirsty arrogant powers, dictators, monarchies, Zionists, until the realization of the new Islamic civilization and the advent of the great sun of Guardianship.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps 9 March 2026 (18 Esfand 1404 AH solar)

Message of the Commander of the Law Enforcement Forces

Following the election of Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as the Guardian Jurist of the time and leader of the sacred system of the Islamic Republic of Iran by the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership, the Commander of the Law Enforcement Forces of the country issued a statement congratulating this worthy choice to the blessed presence of the Master of the Age (may God hasten his advent), the great nation of Iran, and the free people of the world, announcing the sincere and lifelong allegiance to the Commander‑in‑Chief and emphasizing that, as in the era of the leadership of the Imam of the Nation and the martyred Leader, they will be obedient to the orders and directives of his eminence and ready to implement them.

Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all the diplomats of the Islamic Republic of Iran, both inside and outside the country, pledged allegiance to the third great leader of the Islamic Revolution, Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei (may his shadow last long). In this statement, it is said: We renew our covenant with the Supreme Leader and the great nation of Iran to continue our unblemished efforts in advancing Iran’s national interests and achieving the lofty goals of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s foreign policy.

Statement of Renewal of Covenant of Hezbollah Lebanon

Statement of Renewal of Covenant of Hezbollah with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution of Iran

The Islamic Resistance of Lebanon announced in a statement: We congratulate the leadership and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran on the election of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as the third leader of the Islamic Revolution, the successor to the best of predecessors, the master of the martyred leaders of the nation, Imam Ali al-Husseini Khamenei, who after decades of jihad and wise leadership that preserved the path of the Islamic Revolution and established the path of dignity, independence, and authority against the forces of global arrogance, attained martyrdom.

Hezbollah honors the blessed efforts and the historical and religious responsibility that the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership undertook, and despite the difficult circumstances and the criminal American‑Israeli aggression on Iran and the targeting of the Assembly of Experts to prevent the election of a new leader, they quickly elected the new leader of the revolution and the Guardian of the Nation, and considers the election of Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei to be a cause of despair and confusion for the enemies.

This quick and wise choice sends a devastating message to the enemies of the Islamic Republic and the enemies of the Nation: that Iran, with its leadership and people, is not afraid of the terrorism of the aggressors, and the efforts to strike this revolution will fail in the face of the sacrifice of the mujahideen, the blood of the martyrs, and the strength of the leadership, and no power from America and Israel is able to break the will of this dear nation, the children of the martyred Imam Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and this revolution will continue with full strength and solidity on the path of guardianship until achieving dignity and victory.

We in Hezbollah, while sincerely congratulating this occasion, renew our covenant and loyalty to this blessed path and steadfastness on the line of guardianship, and we ask Almighty God to guide the steps of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei in continuing this original path that Imam Khomeini charted, to grant him success in bearing this great trust, to protect him from the plots of enemies and criminals, to preserve the Islamic Republic and its dear people, and to overcome this aggression with greater victory, strength, and solidity.

Congratulations Message of Ansarallah Yemen

Ansarallah of Yemen congratulated the election of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei. Muhammad al‑Houthi, member of the Supreme Political Council: We congratulate the election of Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei as leader of the revolution to Iran, its leadership, and its people. This shows the cohesion, unity, and readiness of the system and the nation, and that they are resistant and invincible.

Congratulations and Pledge of Allegiance Message of Jamiat al‑Sadra al‑Islamia Pakistan

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

مَا نَنسَخْ مِنْ آيَةٍ أَوْ نُنسِهَا نَأْتِ بِخَيْرٍ مِّنْهَا أَوْ مِثْلِهَا أَلَمْ تَعْلَمْ أَنَّ اللَّهَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ (Al‑Baqarah 106)

Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ali Muhammad

With hearts full of joy and gratitude, Jamiat al‑Sadra al‑Islamia Pakistan congratulates and felicitates the blessed appointment of Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei to the leadership of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the leader of the Muslims of the world to all the free people of the world, especially the Muslim brothers and sisters of Iran and Pakistan. This appointment is a divine gift and an opportunity to renew the covenant with the ideals of the Islamic Revolution and to strengthen unity and solidarity among the Muslim nation. Jamiat al‑Sadra al‑Islamia Pakistan, with great devotion and with hearts full of faith, expresses its allegiance to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution and announces its full readiness for cooperation and assistance in realizing the lofty goals of the Islamic system. We hope that under the luminous guidance of Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, the Islamic world will be safe from the harm of differences and challenges and will step toward peace, justice, and spirituality, and that this leadership and system will be joined to the global system of the Imam of the Age (may God hasten his advent). Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you. Jamiat al‑Sadra al‑Islamia Pakistan 9 March 2026

Statement of over 2,500 Sunni figures of Hormozgan in support of the leadership

Part of this statement reads:

We, the Sunni seminary students and clerics of Hormozgan province, announce that we will stand steadfast and united on the path of the Islamic Revolution, in preserving independence and defending religious and national values, and we pledge loyalty and companionship to the new leader of the revolution. We will announce our decisive support for this righteous successor and we make a covenant with his eminence with all our being that we will obey and follow the directives of the two Imams of the revolution and the orders of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei (may God preserve him), until our last breath.

Message of the Chairman of the Supreme Council of Taqrib

Mawlawi Muhammad Ishaq Madani in his message called this choice a consolation after the loss of the Supreme Leader and emphasized the merits and upbringing of the new leader in his school. The chairman of the Supreme Council of the World Forum for Proximity of Islamic Schools of Thought declared solidarity with the Iranian nation in pledging allegiance to the new leader and standing with the Islamic Revolution, and wished him success in guiding the Islamic Revolution.

Message of Mamusta Abd al‑Rahman Moradi, Friday imam of the Sunnis of Kermanshah

The Iranian nation, by electing a new leader, will enter a new phase of stability and national authority. We consider this election a good omen, because Ayatollah Haj Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei is a direct product of the martyred leader’s upbringing and has been alongside him for years. Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei is an aware, capable personality with deep political and religious insight who can vigorously pursue the goals and ideals of the Islamic Revolution. The enemy’s reactions show the enemy’s weakness and indicate the strength of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei’s character, because they know that with his coming to power, the goals of the revolution will be pursued and the programs of the Supreme Leader will continue with greater strength and ability.

Message of the International Foundation of Allamah Shahid Balkhi

Dr. Seyyed Reza Hosseini Balkhi, Secretary‑General of the International Foundation of Allamah Shahid Seyyed Ismail Balkhi, issued a statement congratulating the election of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei as the third leader of the Islamic Revolution and announced his allegiance to him. The statement reads: "The wise and divine election of Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei is another manifestation of God’s promise and the continuation of the luminous path of the two Imams of the revolution, Imam Khomeini and Imam Khamenei. The Assembly of Experts of the Leadership, with a divine and intelligent decision, once again stamped survival on the body of the revolution, and the Muslim nation witnessed the rise of a new sun of guardianship." Dr. Hosseini Balkhi, announcing allegiance on behalf of Shiites, Afghan migrants, and elites, emphasized: We believe that this transition of guardianship will be the beginning of a new chapter in the realization of the new Islamic civilization, the unity of the nation, and the liberation of holy Jerusalem. We stand in the ranks of guardianship until our last breath to realize the ideals of the revolution and destroy the system of domination. He added: We, the followers of the school of Allamah Shahid Balkhi – who gave meaning to jihad with their blood – are again steadfast in our covenant with guardianship and will not spare any effort to support the new leadership. Our allegiance to guardianship is a historic and lasting allegiance. Dr. Hosseini Balkhi, at the end, praying for mercy for the late leader of the revolution, asked for a long and honorable life and success in service for the new leader.

Message of the Director of the Khadamiya Amanli Seminary, North Khorasan

Haj Gholi Akhund Kamali, director of the Khadamiya Amanli Seminary: The election of Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei by the Assembly of Experts as the third leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran indicates his eminence’s competence and qualification for leading the country. Based on Sunni jurisprudential and theological foundations, we consider him the "Uli al‑Amr" (those in authority) who possesses all the necessary qualifications and must be obeyed, and I announce my allegiance. We hope that under his guidance and leadership, the path of dignity and authority of the Islamic world will continue with greater strength.

See also

• Seyyed Ruhollah Moosavi Khomeini
• Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei

Sources

• Third Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Martyred Imam Channel affiliated with the Institute for Taqrib Studies on Eitaa, date of publication: 10 March 2026 (19 Esfand 1404 AH solar), date accessed: 10 March 2026 (19 Esfand 1404 AH solar).