Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Iran’s newly appointed leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. In a message on Monday, Putin said Russia “has been and will remain a reliable partner for Iran,” adding that holding such a high position requires “resilience and dedication.” Putin is among the first world leaders to congratulate Khamenei after Iran’s Assembly of Experts appointed him late Sunday as the country’s new leader, following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei. The appointment has sparked reactions both inside and outside Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump said, “We will see what happens,” while China opposed any foreign interference in Iran’s internal affairs. Videos circulating on social media showed some government supporters chanting “Allahu Akbar,” while others in parts of Tehran shouted “Death to Mojtaba.”
