Al Jazeera has revealed rare insights into the workings of Iran’s secretive leadership succession process, as elite circles intensify discussions over who will replace Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The sudden death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a May helicopter crash has intensified internal focus on who will succeed the aging Khamenei, who turns 86 this year. Raisi had been widely viewed as a potential successor. His absence shifted the spotlight to Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the Supreme Leader’s son, though the latter’s candidacy remains controversial due to sensitivities around dynastic succession.

Khamenei himself has publicly opposed hereditary leadership, signaling that his son may not have his endorsement.

Structure of the Secret Succession Committee

According to political sources cited by Al Jazeera, the Iranian constitution grants the Assembly of Experts full authority to choose the Supreme Leader. A secret subcommittee within this assembly continuously evaluates qualified clerics based on strict religious and political criteria. This “guidance list” is updated regularly in secret, and even those listed may not be aware of their candidacy.

The committee’s goal is to ensure readiness in the event of a sudden leadership vacuum, with deliberations remaining confidential to avoid politicization or targeted pressure.

No Legal Power—But Enormous Influence

Despite its strategic role, the secret committee holds no binding legal authority. It merely provides a consultative shortlist. The ultimate decision rests with the Assembly of Experts, whose members retain full discretion. This structure was reinforced after past failures to manage smooth transitions, notably the brief and contentious selection of the late Ayatollah Hussein Ali Montazeri in the 1980s.

Constitution Allows for Non-Iranian Leader

In a lesser-known constitutional provision, Iran’s Supreme Leader does not need to be ethnically Iranian. The role is defined as spiritual leader of the Islamic ummah, broadening the scope of eligibility. However, cultural resistance and concerns about foreign influence make such a scenario unlikely in practice.