‘Our Resources Are Done’
The Atlantic
March 1, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death marks a turning point for Iran, as the regime he led is poised to undergo significant transformation. While a temporary three-person leadership committee has been established, real power lies with the 13-member National Security Council, which has effectively managed the country since June’s 12-day conflict. This council, dominated by military and political insiders like Ali Larijani and Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, is likely to continue its dominance even as a new supreme leader is appointed.
The immediate priority for Iran’s leaders is navigating the ongoing war with the United States and Israel. Despite pressure to abandon decades of hostility, there are signs that Iran may seek a diplomatic path to survive. A source close to Qalibaf suggests Iran could establish diplomatic ties with the U.S., adopt a stance toward Israel similar to Gulf states, and possibly relax repressive domestic laws like mandatory hijab. However, the future of Iran’s regime may not hinge solely on the selection of a new supreme leader, as the interim committee lacks reformist influence and includes hard-liners like Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei and Alireza Arafi.
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Originally published on The Atlantic on 3/1/2026