The Head of the Iqbal Forum , in an interview with Pakistan Television’s English-language channel.

Legitimacy and nature of selecting the new leader

He emphasizes that the selection of a successor in Iran is a completely internal matter, and other countries such as the United States have no right to interfere or comment on its acceptance or rejection.

Bagheri states that the selection was carried out through the Assembly of Experts with a decisive vote (around 90% of votes) from among several candidates.

The Head of the Iqbal Think Tank explains that Western media lack a proper understanding of the concept of “spiritual leadership” and the position of “Guardianship of the Jurist” in Shia Islam.

Personal and scholarly characteristics of Mojtaba Khamenei

He describes Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as experienced in political and religious matters (at the age of 56), having played a role for 25 years alongside his father in managing state affairs, and having taught at high levels in religious seminaries for 17 years, reaching the rank of ijtihad.

He also notes that the new leader, in addition to religious scholarship, is knowledgeable in economic matters and maintains close relations with military institutions and the Revolutionary Guard.

Iran’s position on tensions and negotiations

Bagheri stated that Iran has never initiated war, but in response to attacks by Israel and the United States on its sovereignty and infrastructure (such as desalination facilities and oil reserves), it reserves the right to retaliate.

He explained that the current reluctance to negotiate stems from repeated breaches of commitments by the opposing side and simultaneous attacks during talks, questioning how negotiations can proceed under such conditions.

Regional and international consequences

Bagheri warned that continued attacks on Iran would have consequences affecting the entire Persian Gulf region and the global energy market.

He stressed that if regional countries allow the United States to use their airbases to attack Iran, those bases will be considered legitimate targets for Iranian retaliation.

Analysis of the U.S. administration

He stated that Trump is seeking a “winning card” in foreign policy, but over time it will become clear that he will not achieve his goals of regime collapse or mobilizing the Iranian population against the system.