Iran's regime facing command crisis amid rumors over Khamenei's health: expert

The Jerusalem Post, through the insights of Iran expert Dr. Thamar Eilam Gindin, delves into the growing uncertainty surrounding Iran's leadership, particularly the rumored ill health of Mojtaba Khamenei. This situation, coupled with the IRGC's increasingly autonomous actions, paints a picture of a regime potentially grappling with internal instability and a fractured chain of command. The lack of transparency regarding Mojtaba's condition, with conflicting leaks and intensifying rumors of his demise, suggests a deliberate obfuscation by those seeking to maintain control or consolidate power.

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Whether Mojtaba is well is a question we have been asking since February 28. The answer changes with every leak. Rumors that he is dead are multiplying, which is what many thought from the beginning.

Dr. Gindin's analysis points to the possibility of an 'Iranian deep state' operating behind the scenes, issuing statements and making decisions in Mojtaba Khamenei's name to lend them legitimacy. This raises critical questions about who truly holds power in Tehran and whether the current political and military structures are functioning cohesively. The IRGC's recent actions, such as an alleged attack on a vessel without presidential coordination, exemplify this apparent disconnect, leaving President Masoud Pezeshkian sidelined and angered.

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There is a group, and it is not clear who they are, that says things in Mojtaba’s name and uses him as legitimacy for the decisions they make.

From an Israeli perspective, as reflected in the Jerusalem Post's coverage, this internal confusion within Iran is significant. It suggests a potential weakening of the regime's centralized control, which could have implications for regional stability and Iran's foreign policy. The expert's comments on the IRGC acting independently and the president being out of the loop highlight a potential power struggle or a breakdown in communication that could either embolden or destabilize the Iranian leadership. The focus on these internal dynamics is crucial for understanding Iran's behavior on the international stage.

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The Revolutionary Guards are now doing things on their own. President Masoud Pezeshkian did not know about it. He is not relevant, but he still exists.