Leadership & factionalism stories

May 19, 2026

Trump Calls Off Iran Strike at Request of Gulf Allies; Tensions Follow Khamenei's Death

President Trump announced he has put a planned military strike on Iran 'on hold' following requests from Gulf allies. The decision comes amid heightened regional tensions after the death of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Israel having killed 3,000 in Lebanon since March.

May 19, 20262 sources

Apr 30, 2026

Iran's Newly Installed Supreme Leader Khamenei Vows to Protect Nuclear and Missile Capabilities

Iran's recently installed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei declared the country will safeguard its nuclear and missile programs, rejecting US President Donald Trump's efforts to curtail these capabilities through military action and diplomatic pressure, amid an ongoing US naval blockade, Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz, and indirect talks mediated by Pakistan.

Apr 30, 20265 sources

Apr 25, 2026

Trump Claims Iran Leadership Divided Between 'Hardliners and Moderates'

President Trump claimed internal division within Iran's leadership between hardliners and moderates, while Iranian officials dismissed the assertion and emphasized national unity.

Apr 25, 20264 sources