At the beginning of the week, Iran announced Mojtaba Khamenei as its new Supreme Leader. The announcement came despite the reports that Iran’s leadership could face serious instability following the death of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. However, US intelligence findings now indicate that Iran’s leadership structure remains largely intact and would not collapse anytime soon.
What Does The Report Say?
According to news agency Reuters report, citing sources familiar with the matter, a "multitude" of intelligence reports provide "consistent analysis that the regime is not in danger" of collapse and "retains control of the Iranian public.” The latest findings were completed a few days ago amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday indicated that the war can end anytime soon. Speaking to Axios, Trump said, "Little this and that...Any time I want it to end, it will end.” However, the case doesn't seem so as the Iranian leaders have ruled out the possibility of reaching a ceasefire with the US and Israel.
This report contradicts Trump’s earlier claim, where he had suggested that the US will take down the Iranian regime. “When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours (Iranian people) to take,” Trump said. According to Reuters, Israeli officials have also acknowledged that there is no certainty the war will lead to the clerical government's collapse in Iran.The intelligence assessment suggests continuity of Iran's clerical leadership despite the killing of Khamenei on the first day of the US-Israeli strikes on February 28.
Iran Sets Three Demands
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined three conditions to end the ongoing "war." The demands include recognising the legitimate rights of Iran, payment of reparations, and international guarantees against future military aggression.
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