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A new era and new leadership: The generals who are running Iran

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Iranians gathered last month in Tehran with flags and posters to show their support for Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader.

A crowd celebrating Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment as Iran’s new Supreme Leader at Enghelab Square in Tehran, Iran, on March 9.

PHOTO: ARASH KHAMOOSHI/ NYT

Farnaz Fassihi

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When Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ruled Iran as the supreme leader, he exerted absolute power over all decisions about war, peace and negotiations with the United States. His son and successor does not play the same role.

Mr Mojtaba Khamenei is an elusive figure who has not been seen and whose voice has not been heard since he was appointed in March.

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