Iran Leadership Consolidates Under Council in US Talks

CAIRO, Egypt — In the wake of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and numerous top officials at the outset of the war on February 28, the Islamic Republic's leadership has consolidated under a collective body rather than collapsing, as new negotiations with the United States test its unity.

The strikes, which targeted key figures early in the conflict, prompted the swift succession of Khamenei's son, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, to the supreme leadership role. However, Mojtaba Khamenei remains in hiding and has not appeared publicly since assuming the position, fueling uncertainty about his influence and how he communicates directives to other leaders. Reports suggest he may have sustained injuries in the attacks, though officials have not confirmed details.

At the heart of the current power structure is Iran's Supreme National Security Council, a politburo-style group comprising top civilian and military officials. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has emerged as its prominent face and lead negotiator with the United States. The council, which Khamenei had begun empowering before his death, now holds greater authority...