Khamenei Reportedly Prepares Succession Plan Amid Fears of Assassination

Amid heightened U.S. military presence in the Middle East and Israel’s increasingly firm stance toward Tehran, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly put contingency leadership measures in place to address potential crisis scenarios. According to international media reports, these preparations come amid concerns that Iran could become a direct target if U.S. President Donald Trump authorizes military action.

A report published Sunday by The New York Times claims that Khamenei has established multiple layers of backup plans to prevent a leadership vacuum in the event of an attack, removal, or assassination. During nationwide anti-government protests in January, he reportedly elevated close ally Ali Larijani to a more central role within the governing structure. The move is described as an effort to ensure continuity of governance during times of instability.

Within Iranian diplomatic circles, there are reportedly concerns that if Tehran refuses to meet U.S. demands, Khamenei—or even his son Mojtaba Khamenei—could become targets. While no official confirmation has been made regarding such threats, the issue is said to be under serious consideration within political and defense institutions.

The report further states that a structured emergency command chain has been prepared to maintain decision-making capacity in case communication lines are disrupted or top leadership is incapacitated. Senior officials, members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and former diplomats were cited as sources for these claims.

Although Larijani has not been formally declared a successor, he is viewed as one of Khamenei’s most trusted crisis managers. He is reportedly overseeing sensitive nuclear diplomacy with Washington, managing unrest at home, and coordinating with regional allies such as Russia, Qatar, and Oman.

Meanwhile, The Times of Israel reported that multiple alternative figures have been designated for key military and political roles to ensure that state institutions remain operational under any emergency scenario.

Taken together, the developments suggest that Iran’s leadership is actively preparing for uncertainty amid mounting international pressure and domestic tensions. The trajectory of events will likely depend on both regional military dynamics and the progress of ongoing diplomatic negotiations.