Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally congratulated Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on his appointment as the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, expressing hope that his leadership will steer the nation toward peace and stability.
Message of Solidarity and Condolence
In an official letter, the Prime Minister conveyed Pakistan’s deepest condolences to the Iranian leadership and its people following the martyrdom of the late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The PM’s office stated that Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran during this difficult period, noting that the loss had deeply saddened the people of Pakistan.
Hope for Future Leadership
PM Shehbaz expressed confidence that under Mojtaba Khamenei’s guidance, Iran would achieve greater dignity and prosperity. He emphasized that the bilateral relationship is built on a foundation of shared faith, history, and culture.
Commitment to Bilateral Ties
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Iran across all areas of mutual interest for the benefit of both nations. He concluded with prayers for the new leader’s success and for peace and stability in Iran.
Background on the New Supreme Leader
Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, was appointed by Iran’s Assembly of Experts to succeed his father. A mid-ranking cleric, he survived a recent US-Israeli air war that resulted in his father’s martyrdom. His selection followed guidance that Iran’s top leader should be “hated by the enemy,” a point referenced by US President Donald Trump, who previously called Mojtaba an “unacceptable” choice.
Other figures considered for the position included interim council member Alireza Arafi and Hassan Khomeini, grandson of the republic’s founder.
