TEHRAN – Thousands of Iranians took to the streets on Monday in large demonstrations expressing support for Mojtaba Khamenei, who has been presented by supporters as the new leader of the Islamic Revolution. Crowds gathered in several locations across the capital, including Enqelab Square, where demonstrators waved Iranian flags and chanted slogans condemning the United States and Israel amid heightened tensions in the region.

Unlike his father, Mojtaba Khamenei has spent much of his career away from the public spotlight, wielding influence largely behind the scenes. Over the years, he has been widely viewed by political observers as a powerful figure within Iran’s clerical and security establishment.