Minsk: Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Monday congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei on his selection as Iran's new supreme leader. He was declared the successor to his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed with his family members in a US-Israeli airstrike on Feb. 28.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lukashenko expressed that Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership at an 'exceptionally difficult time,' and conveyed his confidence that under the new leadership, Iran would continue to defend its independence, ensure stable development, preserve its spiritual heritage, and strengthen its role on the international stage. Lukashenko emphasized that these efforts would serve as the best tribute to the memory of Khamenei's family and all Iranians defending their nation.

Lukashenko acknowledged the Iranian people's loyalty to traditions, resilience in the face of challenges, and their pursuit of independent development, which commands respect. He highlighted the longstanding partnership between Belarus and Iran, emphasizing the importance of expanding contacts at all levels. The relationship between the two nations is founded on mutual respect and trust.

Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has now become Iran's third supreme leader in history. Iranian officials have described his appointment as a move toward strengthening national unity. The former supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, served in the role for 37 years before his assassination in a joint US-Israel airstrike targeted at his residence in Tehran.