President Donald Trump voiced strong dissatisfaction with Iran’s choice of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new supreme leader. He made these comments during an exclusive interview with Fox News chief foreign correspondent Trey Yingst.
This reaction follows the recent appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei. It came after the death of his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in an airstrike that launched Operation Epic Fury.
Trump stated he does not believe the new leader “can live in peace.” He also praised early military results as “way beyond expectation” at this stage.
Many in Texas and across the U.S. watch these developments closely. Oil prices and global stability affect everyday life here in Dallas. From what we’ve seen in recent weeks, this conflict continues to reshape the Middle East.
What Triggered Trump’s Criticism of Mojtaba Khamenei?
Iran’s Assembly of Experts named Mojtaba Khamenei supreme leader on March 8, 2026. This occurred just over a week after his father’s death in U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28.
Mojtaba, a 56-year-old cleric, has ties to Iran’s security forces and business networks. His selection signals hardliners remain in control amid ongoing war.
Trump told Yingst he felt “not happy” about the pick. He suggested the new leader lacks the ability to bring peace. Earlier remarks indicated any successor needed U.S. approval to endure.
This stance aligns with the administration’s goal. Prevent Iran from rebuilding its nuclear or missile threats.
Operation Epic Fury: Key Updates on Day 11
The joint U.S.-Israeli campaign began February 28, 2026. It targets Iran’s military infrastructure to eliminate nuclear risks and ballistic threats.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reports over 5,000 locations hit in the first 10 days. More than 50 Iranian ships suffered damage or destruction.
Strikes focus on:
- Command and control centers
- Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) headquarters
- Intelligence sites
- Air defense systems
- Ballistic missile and drone facilities
- Naval assets, submarines, and anti-ship missiles
CENTCOM posted on X that forces deliver “overwhelming firepower” day and night. They emphasized persistent hunting of hidden missile launchers. A video showed several destroyed.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth spoke at the Pentagon on Tuesday. He described the operation entering its 11th day with “overwhelming and unrelenting focus.”
Hegseth highlighted Tuesday as potentially the most intense strike day yet. More fighters, bombers, and refined intelligence drive the effort.
He noted Iran’s missile launches hit their lowest level recently. “The mullahs are desperate and scrambling,” he said. He accused them of firing from civilian sites like schools and hospitals.
Hegseth warned Russia to stay out. This followed Trump’s call with President Vladimir Putin.
Broader Implications for Oil and Global Markets
Trump posted on Truth Social Monday. He threatened strikes “twenty times harder” if Iran disrupts the Strait of Hormuz oil flow.
He mentioned easily destroyable targets that could prevent Iran’s rebuilding. However, he added he prefers to avoid that level of escalation.
From my view here in Dallas, these warnings matter. Gas prices spiked earlier due to tensions. Any prolonged Strait issues could hit Texas drivers hard again.
Hegseth stressed the U.S. fights on its timeline. No endless nation-building lies ahead.
What Comes Next in the U.S.-Iran Conflict?
The operation shows strong momentum. Trump described results as exceeding expectations early on.
Iran faces heavy degradation. Yet, the new supreme leader’s appointment defies external pressure.
Talks remain uncertain. Trump mentioned hearing Iran “wants to talk badly.” He called negotiations possible but dependent on terms.
For American readers, especially in energy-heavy states like Texas, stay informed. Developments shift quickly. Watch official sources like CENTCOM and the White House for updates.
This conflict carries real stakes. It affects security, energy costs, and international relations. If you hav
