Iran Expert Says Mojtaba Khamenei Must Appear Publicly to Avoid Regime Damage

In a joint interview on 103fm, Iran researcher and Shia affairs expert Danny Sitrinovitz and Dr. Michael Milstein, a former senior IDF Intelligence officer and senior researcher at Tel Aviv University, discussed the notable absence of Mojtaba Khamenei from the funeral of Iran's former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Sitrinovitz emphasized that Mojtaba "will ultimately have to show himself; he cannot remain the hidden imam, or the regime will suffer." Despite Mojtaba's absence from public view, it is understood that he is alive, injured, and difficult to reach, yet still holds the final decision-making power within Iran's unique political system.

They interpreted the funeral as a deliberate Iranian display of strength both domestically and internationally, aimed at signaling to the United States and Israel that the regime endures and continues to resist Western attempts to alter it. Milstein noted the presence of unexpected attendees from various factions, including Gulf states traditionally seen as rivals, which serves as a form of legitimization for the surviving regime. Arab media coverage also highlights the regime's survival and internal strength.

The analysts also addressed rising tensions between Israel and Turkey amid U.S. President Trump's upcoming NATO summit visit to Ankara. Milstein suggested Trump might offer Turkey a "gift," possibly an F-35 deal, and highlighted Turkey's eagerness to secure this agreement. He cautioned against escalating hostilities, noting Trump's statement that no conflict between Israel and Turkey would occur while he remains president. Both experts advocated for de-escalation, with Sitrinovitz pointing out Turkey's pragmatic ties to Israel, such as oil transit and flight routes.

Finally, Milstein mentioned Turkey's involvement in a new initiative with Egypt and Qatar concerning Gaza, which could lead to a problematic arrangement involving the gradual and partial disarmament of Hamas. He warned this issue would require attention soon, reflecting the complex realities of the region.