Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday congratulated Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei on his election as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, wishing him success in resolving the challenges facing Iran and its people, the Kremlin said.
“To His Excellency Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei … please accept my sincere congratulations on your election as Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Putin said in a statement, as quoted by the Kremlin.
The statement from Putin comes after Mojtaba Khamenei was named Iran’s new supreme leader following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, in US and Israeli strikes earlier in the conflict that began on Feb 28. His appointment comes as the country faces one of the most serious crises in its modern history.
The Kremlin statement highlighted the scale of responsibilities the new leader now shoulders amid ongoing regional tensions and difficult geopolitical conditions.
Iran opposes armed aggression, and such activities will require great courage and dedication, the president said, wishing the new supreme leader success in solving difficult tasks and fortitude.
“I am sure that you will honorably continue your father’s work and unite the Iranian people in the face of severe trials,” the statement read.
Putin also confirmed Russia’s continued support for Tehran and solidarity with Iranian friends, adding that Russia has been and will continue to be a reliable partner of Iran.
Putin also underscored Russia’s expectation that Iran will maintain its principled opposition to armed aggression, noting that defending national sovereignty and regional stability will require courage, resilience and unwavering dedication.
The Russian president’s congratulatory message has reaffirmed Moscow’s intention to preserve close ties with Tehran and support efforts to reduce conflict and pursue diplomatic resolution.
The Kremlin’s remarks follow Russia’s earlier expression of condolences after the assassination of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei , which Putin described as a cynical violation of international norms, and stressed longstanding strategic partnerships between Moscow and Tehran.
The selection of a 56-year-old cleric followed the established constitutional procedure rather than a hereditary transfer of power, although his family lineage and proximity to the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have long placed him at the centre of speculation about succession.
The Assembly said Mojtaba Khamenei had been selected with “strong” support and called on the nation to unite behind the new leader. The state television also aired footage showing groups celebrating in public spaces in Tehran.
With his appointment, Mojtaba becomes the third supreme leader of the Islamic Republic since the 1979 revolution, inheriting leadership at a moment of intense regional conflict and domestic uncertainty.
Mojtaba Khamenei succeeds his father as the Islamic Republic’s highest political and spiritual authority.
His elevation formally concludes the succession process that began after Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28 in strikes targeting his residential compound in Tehran.
