Irans Future to Be Determined by Its People, Not Trump Officials

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has stated that the fate of Iran will be determined solely by the Iranian people, not by external forces. In a recent message on X, Ghalibaf referred to US President Donald Trump’s assertion that he wants to play a role in appointing the country’s next leader as “ridiculous.” Trump had previously expressed his desire to have a say in selecting the successor of assassinated Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh has also rejected Trump’s involvement in the selection process, citing the US federal system and its lack of influence over local elections. “Can you imagine this approach?” Khatibzadeh asked during a conference in New Delhi. “He wants to see democracy at home, but he would like to topple down the democratically elected president of Iran.”

Trump has repeatedly stated that he wants to maintain the current ruling structure in Iran while replacing the leadership with individuals willing to meet Washington’s demands. He has also expressed his desire for a fair and just leader who will treat the US and Israel well, as well as other countries in the Middle East.

Experts have cast doubt on Trump’s ability to find an Iranian equivalent of Venezuela’s President Delcy Rodriguez, who was selected after US forces abducted her predecessor. Sina Azodi, assistant professor of Middle East Politics at George Washington University, has stated that it is “wishful thinking” for Trump to believe he can play a role in selecting the next supreme leader.

The Assembly of Experts, an elected council of 88 members, will select the next supreme leader. Trump has expressed opposition to the possible appointment of Khamenei’s son Mojtaba, calling him a “lightweight.” The US and Israeli officials have claimed that Iran is suffering heavy blows due to US actions, but Iranian officials have projected defiance and confidence.

Ghalibaf has also criticized Trump for his approach, stating that he wants to dictate terms to a nation. Azodi has noted that both sides are engaging in war propaganda, with no clear resolution in sight.

Source: Al Jazeera