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Tehran: The ground is being prepared for a major change of power in Iranian politics. According to reports, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the US-Israel airstrike on February 28. His son Mujtaba Khamenei, who replaced him, was also badly injured in this attack and his condition is still critical. According to a report in 'New York Times', in these circumstances, the command of the country has been completely taken over by the generals of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It is being said that Mujtaba is now running the country in name only, as if he is the chairman of a company, but all the real decisions are being taken by the army general.

Along with Mujtaba's father, his wife and son were also killed in this attack. Mujtaba has not been seen in any public program since being seriously injured. It is reported that one of his legs had to be amputated and one hand also underwent surgery. His face and lips have been burnt in the attack, due to which he is facing difficulty in speaking. This is why he is issuing only written statements instead of audio messages. Even big leaders are not allowed to meet him due to fear of Israeli spying. Mujtaba is being treated under the supervision of President Massoud Peseshkian (who is himself a heart surgeon) and the Health Minister. There are also reports that Mujtaba may need plastic surgery.

The army has completely sidelined the elected government from strategic decisions of the country. The powers of Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have been reduced, while Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is being given more importance in foreign affairs. The IRGC has complete control over all matters such as military action with Israel, closure of sea lanes and ceasefire negotiations with Washington. This is the first time in Iran's history that senior Guard commanders have been directly included in the team negotiating with the US.

At present, the balance of power in Iran has completely tilted in favor of the military. President Peseshkian and his team are only looking after domestic affairs and supply of essential goods, while all major decisions related to the country's diplomacy and military are in the hands of the generals. At the end of the 'New York Times' report it is said that the influence of clerics is now decreasing in Tehran and fundamentalist thinking military officers are dominating Iran's politics.