How Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Is Keeping Grip on Power

Geopolitical Analysis of Iran - The Iranian regime, particularly Ayatollah Khamenei, appears unusually vulnerable [1] - The regime's authority, built on standing up to Israel and the US, has been undermined [2] - Iran's inability to defend key military and nuclear sites during the conflict exposed its weaknesses [3] - Approximately 1,000 Iranians, including civilians, were killed, highlighting the regime's failure to protect its people [3] Leadership and Succession - The regime is now focused on survival and maintaining the Islamic Republic [4] - Khamenei's age (86 years old) and recent absence have intensified the succession question [4] - Hassan Khomeini, Khomeini's grandson, represents a reformist, moderate option for succession [6] - Mostafa Khomeini, Khamenei's son, represents a hardline option closely tied to the Revolutionary Guard [7]