Details of Khamenei’s Escape Plan
In the event of a military or security forces split, Ali Khamenei is prepared to leave Tehran with a small circle of up to 20 trusted associates and family members. His son Mojtaba Khamenei, widely regarded as a potential successor, is expected to accompany him.
The plan reportedly mirrors the 2024 flight of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to Russia after his regime collapsed. Pre-arranged evacuation routes, access to cash reserves, foreign assets, and overseas properties have all been organized in advance.
Former Israeli intelligence officer Beni Sabti told media outlets that Russia remains Khamenei’s only viable option: “He admires Putin, and Iranian culture feels closer to Russian than to any Western country.” Strong military and political ties between Tehran and Moscow reinforce this choice.
Health and Psychological State of the Supreme Leader
Since the brief 2025 war with Israel, Ali Khamenei has shown visible physical and psychological decline. Public appearances have become rare, and during the current protests he has almost completely disappeared from view.
Western intelligence assessments describe him as increasingly paranoid, with an “obsession with personal survival.” During last year’s conflict he spent extended periods in a secure bunker, highlighting deep concerns for his safety.
Iran Protests 2026: Causes and Scale
Mass Iran protests 2026 have continued for over a week, initially sparked by soaring inflation, rising food and fuel prices, unemployment, and a sharp drop in living standards. Demonstrations began in provincial cities and poorer neighborhoods but quickly spread to Tehran and other major centers.
Human rights groups report at least 16 deaths in clashes. Protesters chant “Death to Khamenei” and demand fundamental political change. Authorities have imposed partial internet restrictions in the most active regions.
The Iran economic crisis 2026 has been exacerbated by lingering sanctions, reduced oil revenues, and fallout from the recent Israel conflict. Khamenei himself has acknowledged the legitimacy of some economic grievances but warned that “rioters will be dealt with firmly.”
Khamenei’s Financial Empire
Through the powerful Setad organization (Headquarters for Executing the Order of the Imam), the Supreme Leader Iran controls vast holdings in real estate, companies, and other assets. A 2013 Reuters investigation estimated the total value at approximately $95 billion.
Many regime insiders have already relocated families to Dubai, Canada, or even the United States. These offshore resources would reportedly fund a comfortable exile if the escape plan is activated.
What Lies Ahead for Iran?
The situation remains highly volatile. If security forces maintain loyalty, the regime may suppress the protests as it has in the past.
However, any signs of fracture within the military or Revolutionary Guards could trigger Khamenei’s escape plan and potentially lead to dramatic regime change.
Sources: The Times, Reuters, Iran International, Al Jazeera, BBC Persian.