Iran Assembly of Experts named Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, as Supreme Leader after his father Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes. A controversial hereditary succession — the Islamic Republic was founded on religious merit, not bloodlines. US cables once called him the power behind the robes. Iranian military and political leaders have pledged allegiance, signalling hardliners remain in control as the conflict enters its 10th day. Sources: Al Jazeera, BBC.