Middle East tensions reached new heights yesterday as Iran appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as its new Supreme Leader, sparking fears of prolonged conflict with the US and Israel. The 57-year-old cleric, son of late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, received swift allegiance from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard amid intensified airstrikes on Tehran’s oil facilities. 💥
Leadership Shift Sparks Global Alarm
Mojtaba’s confirmation by Iran’s Assembly of Experts came hours after Israel launched attacks on 30 fuel sites across Iran. Thick smoke blanketed parts of Tehran following strikes that Israeli officials called 'legal military targets.' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump doubled down on his stance, warning: 'If he doesn’t get approval from us, he’s not going to last long.' 🚨
Conflict Escalates as Strikes Intensify
Saturday’s strikes marked the ninth day of US-Israeli military operations, with Iran vowing retaliation. Revolutionary Guard forces claimed to have destroyed four US radar systems in the region, while Tehran threatened $200/barrel oil prices if attacks continue. 'Keep playing this game,' warned Iranian spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari, hinting at counterstrikes.
Preparing for the Long Haul
Iran’s military claims readiness for a six-month high-intensity war, deploying drones and next-gen missiles. With US C-5 transport planes spotted leaving South Korea and Trump refusing to rule out seizing Iran’s uranium stockpiles, analysts warn this could be 2026’s most dangerous flashpoint. 🔥
Reference(s):
cgtn.com








