Iran has stepped up preparations to confront a possible war, with the supreme leader transferring most of his authority to National Security Council chief Ali Larijani, according to American media reports.
The New York Times reported that Larijani is also overseeing negotiations with the United States, and that the supreme leader has complete confidence in him. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has named successors across four tiers.
The report stated that, in the event of war, Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf may receive command of the armed forces. Should the senior leadership fall, Larijani stands first in line for an interim arrangement, while Qalibaf and former president Hassan Rouhani are also under consideration for a temporary set-up.
Missiles have been deployed along the Gulf coast, the report said. President Masoud Pezeshkian appears willing to cede authority to Larijani. When Steve Witkoff sought contact with Abbas Araghchi, permission was requested from Larijani.
