Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei (son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei) as the new Supreme Leader. Ali Khamenei was killed in the initial waves of joint US-Israeli strikes. Mojtaba, around 56 years old and known for maintaining a low profile, is widely expected to uphold his father's hardline policies. Iranian military and political leaders have pledged allegiance to him, and this succession comes as the conflict intensifies.

This development has triggered a surge in global oil prices, which have risen above $100 per barrel for the first time in years, due to strikes on Iranian oil facilities and broader supply disruptions.

Ongoing US-Israel Strikes and Iranian Retaliation

The war (now in its second week or around Day 9 in some reports) continues with:

Repeated US and Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian sites, including oil depots, IRGC bases, and other infrastructure in Tehran and elsewhere.

Iranian counterattacks, including missile and drone strikes on Israel, and reports of attacks affecting neighboring areas/Gulf states.

Escalating casualties: The US death toll from the conflict has risen (reports mention at least 7–8 American service members killed, including from drone strikes in places like Kuwait).

Strikes have also hit Beirut (Lebanon), causing civilian casualties and displacing over half a million people amid exchanges with Hezbollah.

President Trump has rejected quick settlements, vowed intensified actions, and described short-term oil price spikes as a "small price to pay" to eliminate Iran's nuclear threat. Iran has defied calls for unconditional surrender.