Khamenei's Circle Shrinks: A Leader Isolated Amidst Crisis

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, now stands more isolated following the recent deaths of key military advisers due to Israeli airstrikes. These losses have created significant gaps in his advisory network, increasing the likelihood of missteps in strategic decision-making, as reported by sources close to Khamenei.

The slain advisers were critical to Iran's defence, internal stability, and comprised members of the Revolutionary Guards. Khamenei's decision-making process reveals a cautious leader focused on regime preservation, while internal economic difficulties and external pressures from Israel threaten his leadership.

With his son Mojtaba playing a more central role, and close confidants like Ali Asghar Hejazi influencing security decisions, Khamenei's circle navigates a perilous landscape. Despite the leadership's resilience against national protests and sanctions, the recent decay in the Revolutionary Guards' top ranks marks a pivotal moment for Iran's ruling authority.

(With inputs from agencies.)