Iran Appoints Ayatollah Alireza Arafi as Interim Leader

Ayatollah Alireza Arafi has been appointed as Iran's interim supreme leader, following a decision by the Expediency Discernment Council. This appointment is part of a transitional leadership arrangement that will oversee state affairs until a permanent successor is chosen.

Arafi, a jurist member of the Guardian Council, will lead alongside Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei. The interim leadership council is responsible for carrying out the duties of the supreme leader during this transition period.

The Assembly of Experts will deliberate on the selection of a permanent successor to the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei. Arafi, who is currently 67 years old, is a significant figure within the influential Guardian Council and will serve as part of a three-member interim leadership body.