Who is Ayatollah Arafi? Iran names interim Supreme Leader following the killing of Ali Khamenei

In a significant political shift, Iran has appointed Alireza Arafi as the interim Supreme Leader following the death of Ali Khamenei. Arafi, who is a prominent cleric, holds multiple influential positions, including membership in the Guardian Council and leadership of the Basij, a paramilitary organization with deep ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. His selection comes at a critical time for Iran, as the nation faces both internal challenges and external pressures, particularly regarding its nuclear program and relations with Western countries. Khamenei's death marks the end of an era, as he led Iran for over three decades, shaping its domestic and foreign policies. Arafi's leadership will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics, as the country navigates its future direction amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.