China Backs Mojtaba Khamenei, United States and Israel Condemned

China has formally stated its firm position regarding political developments in Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Beijing has emphasised its full support for Tehran’s sovereignty and opposition to all forms of threats directed at the country’s new leadership.

This statement emerged after Iran decided to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader. The decision was made shortly after Ali Khamenei was killed in the opening wave of attacks launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory last week.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun commented on the leadership succession in Tehran on Monday, 9 March 2026, to members of the media. He emphasised that Iran’s move to appoint Ali Khamenei’s successor constitutes a legitimate internal matter under the country’s constitutional framework.

“Iran’s decision to appoint the younger Khamenei is based on its constitution,” Guo said in his statement from Beijing, as cited by AFP.

China’s position simultaneously serves as a direct warning to Israel and the United States. Previously, the Israeli military had issued open threats to target whoever becomes Ali Khamenei’s successor in Iran’s highest office.

Guo Jiakun stressed that Beijing strongly opposes any form of foreign interference that attempts to disturb political stability in Iran. He called on the international community to respect Iran’s position as a sovereign nation amid escalating regional tensions.

“China opposes interference in other countries’ internal affairs on any pretext, and Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity must be respected,” Guo stated when asked about threats against the new leadership.

The situation in the Middle East has intensified following continued bombardment of Iran by Israel and the United States in recent days. These attacks have provoked a strong response from Tehran, which has retaliated by launching waves of missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory.

Furthermore, Iran has also targeted neighbouring Gulf states that host military bases for United States forces. This escalation has triggered global concerns about the outbreak of a large-scale war involving major world powers.