Trump Dismisses Iran’s New Supreme Leader, Claims Operation ‘Very Soon’ to End
Doral, Florida – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly downplayed the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new Supreme Leader, stating he has “no message for him. None, whatsoever,” in a recent interview with CBS. The comments come as the U.S. military continues operations following joint strikes with Israel against Iranian targets.
Trump had previously expressed a desire to be involved in selecting Iran’s next leader, drawing a parallel to his involvement in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. He initially labeled Mojtaba Khamenei “unacceptable” and described him as a “lightweight,” suggesting Iran was “wasting” time with the appointment.
The former president’s remarks signal continued U.S. scrutiny of Iran’s leadership transition following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump also indicated he has someone else in mind to lead the country, despite the official announcement of his son’s succession.
In a shift from earlier estimations, Trump now suggests the conflict is nearing resolution. “I think the war is very complete, pretty much,” he stated from his golf club in Doral. He claimed Iran’s military capabilities have been significantly degraded, asserting they “have no navy, no communications, they’ve got no air force.” He added that Iranian missiles and drones are being “blown up all over the place.”
The U.S. military reported having struck over 3,000 Iranian targets in the initial phase of operations. Trump initially predicted the operation would conclude within a month, but now believes they are “very far ahead of schedule.”
However, a conflicting message emerged from the Department of Defense, which posted on X (formerly Twitter) stating, “We have only just begun to fight.” This prompted online criticism, with users pointing out the discrepancy between Trump’s claims of near-victory and the Pentagon’s statement.
The situation remains fluid as the U.S. continues its military operations in the region. Trump’s comments underscore the ongoing U.S. interest in shaping Iran’s political landscape and its military capabilities. Axios reported on March 5, 2026, that Trump acknowledged Mojtaba Khamenei as the likely successor, while maintaining his desire for involvement in the selection process. The Guardian reported on March 10, 2026, that Trump claims the U.S. is making “major strides” in Iran, with the operation ending “very soon.” Time Magazine also reported on March 10, 2026, that Trump has expressed his disapproval of the new Supreme Leader.