Tehran: The Iranian Assembly of Experts has officially announced the selection of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This decision follows the martyrdom of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a significant transition in Iran's leadership. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Assembly expressed its condolences over the loss of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other martyrs, particularly emphasizing the sacrifices of the armed forces and students of the Shajarat Tayyiba School in Minab. The statement condemned the actions of the United States and the Zionist regime, which it described as brutal aggression. The Assembly of Experts, facing challenging circumstances including direct threats and bombings of its secretariat offices, swiftly initiated the process to appoint a new leader. Despite the war and security challenges, the Assembly acted in accordance with constitutional duties to prevent a leadership vacuum. In its statement, the Assembly highlighted the importance of the Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist (Velayat-e Faqih) and acknowledged the leadership's 47 years of governance based on dignity, independence, and power. Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei was selected by an overwhelming majority, reflecting the Assembly's commitment to religious duty and constitutional responsibility. The Assembly concluded its announcement by calling upon the Iranian people, including intellectuals and elites, to support the new leadership and maintain unity around the principles of Velayat-e Faqih, seeking divine grace and protection for the nation.