Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly taken steps to prepare for the possibility of his assassination or removal as tensions with the United States and Israel intensify.
According to a New York Times report published on Sunday, Khamenei elevated longtime ally Ali Larijani to serve as the country’s de facto decision-maker during January’s anti-government unrest.
The move has effectively sidelined Iran’s elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian.
Larijani, a former Revolutionary Guards commander and current secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, is now taking on an expanded role in the state’s affairs.
The leader of the Islamic regime in Iran, Ayatollah Khamenei, has reportedly designated his senior adviser, Ali Larijani, to handle key state affairs in the event of his death.
The New York Times, citing senior Iranian officials and members of the IRGC command. pic.twitter.com/QeMySZHlqq
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) February 22, 2026
He has overseen security responses to protests, coordinated with regional allies including Russia and Qatar, and played a central role in nuclear-related discussions involving Washington.
Although Larijani has emerged as a dominant figure, it is said he lacks the clerical credentials traditionally required to become Supreme Leader.
Other names mentioned in succession speculation include Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf and former president Hassan Rouhani.
Reuters previously reported that U.S. military planning could include targeting senior Iranian figures in the event of a strike, though officials did not name specific individuals.
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
In view of Dr. Ahmadian’s appointment to an executive position in the govt., I appoint Dr. Ali Larijani to be the Leader’s Representative in Supreme National Security Council in accordance with Article 176 of the Constitution.
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) August 7, 2025
Sources cited in the Times report said Khamenei has developed a layered succession framework for key military and government posts, with multiple designated replacements per role.
A small group of trusted insiders has also reportedly been authorized to act in the event of communication breakdowns or Khamenei’s death.
Iran’s leadership is said to be operating under the assumption that a U.S. strike remains a real possibility as it continues to build up its military presence across the region.
Reports suggest President Trump is postponing action on Iran until the USS Gerald R. Ford docks near Israel.
Arrival expected within 24 hours — decision time is approaching fast.pic.twitter.com/puVP6DcCry
— Brandon Straka #WalkAway (@BrandonStraka) February 22, 2026
Iran’s own military forces have been placed on heightened alert, missile systems deployed along key borders, and exercises conducted near the Strait of Hormuz.
Khamenei remains in charge for now, although it increasingly appears like his time is fast running out.
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