U.S. Places $10 Million Bounty on Iran’s New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

“Washington Escalates Pressure on Tehran’s Leadership Amid Intensifying Middle East Tensions.”

The United States government has announced a $10 million reward for information leading to the whereabouts of Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, in a move widely interpreted as a significant escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. The development comes amid an already volatile geopolitical environment in the Middle East, where hostilities involving Iran and its regional adversaries have intensified in recent weeks.

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On Friday, March 13, 2026, the U.S. State Department made the announcement through its “Rewards for Justice” programme, a long-standing initiative designed to encourage individuals around the world to provide information that helps the United States identify, track, and disrupt individuals linked to international terrorism or threats to global security. Under the programme, individuals who supply credible and actionable intelligence could receive financial compensation and, in some cases, relocation assistance to ensure their safety.

According to U.S. officials, the reward specifically targets information related to Mojtaba Khamenei and several senior Iranian officials believed to be connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful military and political force within Iran. The United States has designated the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organisation, accusing it of coordinating militant networks across the Middle East and supporting groups involved in attacks against American interests and allies.

Officials in Washington argue that the bounty is part of a broader effort to increase pressure on Iran’s leadership structure, particularly at a time when tensions between Iran and Western powers are reaching dangerous levels. U.S. authorities maintain that identifying and tracking individuals involved in international militant activities remains essential to safeguarding global security and preventing further escalation in the region.

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The development also follows a dramatic shift in Iran’s leadership earlier this year. Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reportedly assumed the role of Supreme Leader in March 2026 following the death of his father. Ali Khamenei, who served as Iran’s Supreme Leader for more than three decades, was reportedly killed during joint U.S.–Israeli airstrikes on February 28, 2026, an operation that marked one of the most significant confrontations between Iran and its adversaries in recent history.

Although the circumstances surrounding the elder Khamenei’s death remain contested in some quarters, the event has undeniably reshaped Iran’s political and religious leadership. The rise of Mojtaba Khamenei to the country’s highest authority has drawn international attention, partly because of his relatively limited public political profile compared with other senior Iranian figures.

Reports from various international sources suggest that Mojtaba Khamenei himself may have sustained injuries during the same wave of attacks that claimed his father’s life. Since assuming the leadership role, he has rarely appeared in public, choosing instead to communicate through written statements or messages delivered by intermediaries. This limited visibility has fueled speculation about his health, security arrangements, and the internal dynamics of Iran’s ruling establishment.

Analysts say the United States’ decision to offer a financial reward for information about Iran’s new Supreme Leader is likely to heighten diplomatic tensions and provoke strong reactions from Tehran. Iranian officials have historically condemned similar measures as violations of international norms and evidence of hostile intent by Western powers.

At the same time, the move underscores the increasingly confrontational posture adopted by Washington as geopolitical rivalries intensify across the Middle East. Security experts note that the region is already grappling with multiple flashpoints, including proxy conflicts, maritime security threats, and growing competition for strategic influence.

For many observers, the bounty announcement also highlights the information war that often accompanies military and political confrontations. In periods of heightened conflict, intelligence gathering, psychological operations, and strategic messaging frequently become as significant as traditional military engagements.

Critics of the U.S. decision warn that publicly offering a bounty on the head of a sitting national leader could further destabilise an already fragile regional environment. They argue that such actions risk escalating hostilities and complicating diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions between Iran and Western governments.

Supporters of the move, however, contend that the measure is intended to disrupt networks linked to militant activities and demonstrate Washington’s determination to confront perceived threats emanating from Iran’s leadership circles.

As the geopolitical contest between the United States and Iran continues to evolve, the announcement of the $10 million bounty represents another chapter in a long-running confrontation that has shaped Middle Eastern politics for decades. Whether the move will yield actionable intelligence or simply deepen the rift between the two nations remains uncertain.

What is clear, however, is that the stakes in the region are rising, and decisions taken by global powers in the coming months could significantly influence the trajectory of security and stability across the Middle East.

*Oyo Teachers Hold Solemn Assembly, Pray for Peace, Security*

Teachers in Oyo State have been urged to be steadfast in prayers for the State Wing Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and Oyo State.

The Chairman, NUT, Oyo State wing, Comrade Raji Oladimeji made the call on Thursday during a Solemn Assembly held at the Union’s headquarters in Ibadan.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) holds an annual Solemn Assembly in Ibadan to commit the union’s activities, teachers’ welfare, and Oyo State into God’s hands through prayers led by Christian and Muslim clerics.

Comrade Oladimeji said the programme was designed to draw the leadership of the Union and the entire members closer to God, stressing that nothing was impossible with God.

Comrade Oladimeji said: “We pray to God to lead us, and to teach us what we need to know and what we need to do. We are here today to surrender our petitions to the Lord God. We believe He will hear us and our demands will come to pass”.

The NUT Chairman revealed that a lot was being done to improve the welfare of Oyo teachers, expressing confidence that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in improving on the welfare of teachers in the state.

He applauded relevant government agencies, such as Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, Oyo State Post-Primary Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, and the Ministry of Education for prioritising the welfare of teachers.

Oladimeji equally appreciated the National President, NUT, Com. Audu Titus Amba for his relentless advocacy for improved teacher welfare, and his efforts in ensuring better working conditions across the country.

He therefore charged the teachers to be role models to their pupils and students.

Oladimeji also emphasized the need for teachers to seek the face of God in their lives to be able to discharge their duties aright.

In their separate sermons, Pastor (Mrs) Margaret ‘Dayo Akinrinde, from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG Oyo Province 2, Ibadan and Comrade Alh. Haroon Lawal, a retired Permanent Secretary likened teachers to a Shephard who dedicated much of His time to caring for His flock, further describing the teachers as the “shepherds of our generation”.

Consequently, the Union also donated welfare materials to teachers in the 33 local government areas of the State.

The items which include customized clothing materials and other items were distributed to NUT leaders for onward distribution to the teachers.

While distributing the items, the Chairman, Com. Raji Oladimeji informed members that the materials were given to appreciate the efforts that teachers have been putting into the education of students.

The event, which was attended by relevant authorities, and teachers from across the state, featured Quran and Bible readings, prayer session for the leadership of the NUT at all levels, for teachers across the country, for Union staff and for the entire workforce of Nigeria, amongst other prayer points.

PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU AND GENERAL CHRISTOPHER MUSA: A NEW ERA OF SECURITY AND PROGRESS

By Prince Sunday Joshua Bako 

President Bola Tinubu has made significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges since taking office, with notable important appointments and initiatives aimed at stabilizing the nation. One of his key important appointments is General Christopher Musa as the Minister of Defence, who has brought a wealth of experience and strategic thinking to the role.

General Musa, a seasoned military leader, hit the ground running, launching a series of bold operations to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency and other security threats. His approach has been characterized by speed, agility, and a deep understanding of the complexities of modern warfare.

In his first few months in office, General Musa has achieved significant milestones, including the liberation of over 1,500 hostages and the reclamation of strategic territories in Borra, as well as the introduction of mobile strike teams equipped with night-vision capabilities and armored vehicles.

The General established a dedicated Cyber Warfare Command to fortify Nigeria’s defenses against emerging threats, and introduced comprehensive health insurance for soldiers, covering combat-related injuries. Additionally, he has increased allowances for frontline troops by 20% in 2024, a move aimed at boosting morale and improving the welfare of security personnel.

President Tinubu has made historic and significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges, implementing policies aimed at boosting growth and stability. His administration has launched initiatives to address banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, and has invested in infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and economic development.

The headlines speak for themselves what it was during the last tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure and the giant strides we have made now under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister.

1. Boko Haram Insurgency: 55 people killed in two raids near Maiduguri (2015)

2. Takum Taraba State Attack: 21 people killed (2015)

3. Agatu Massacre: Thousands displaced in Benue State (February 29, 2016)

4. Akure Cult Attack: 103 people killed (2017)

5. Ogbagi Akoko Bank Robbery: 20 people killed (2017)

6. Boko Haram Attack on Military Base: 66 personnel killed in Geidam (2018)

7. Kpanche Attack: 40 people killed in Kogi State (2018)

8. Izi Communal Clash: 85 people killed in Ebonyi State (April 2019)

9. Anguwan Aku Attack: 78 people killed in Kaduna State (April 2019)

10. Kankara Attack: 96 people killed in Katsina State (April 2019)

11. Safana, Dutsinma and Danmusa Attack: 67 people killed in Katsina State (2020)

12. Baga Convoy Attack: 30 people killed (2020)

13. Effium Attack: 14 people killed in Ebonyi State (2021)

14. Kurebe Ward Attack: 77 people killed in Niger State (February 2021)

15. Ebenebe Burial Attack: 20 people killed in Anambra State (February 26, 2022)

16. Owo Church Attack: 40 worshipers killed in Ondo State (June 5, 2022)

17. Aba Military Patrol Attack: unspecified number of Soldiers killed in Abia State (2022)

18. Niger State Terrorist Attack: Over 380 people killed (2022)

19. Ogun State Cult Violence: 8 people killed (2022)

20. Katsina Bandit Attack: 87 bandits killed (2022)

21. Northeast Nigeria Islamist Militant Attack: 340 people killed (2022)

22. Boko Haram-Related Violence: Over 5,000 fatalities (2016)

23. Herder-Farmer Clashes: 794 died in violence in middle belt region

24. Kidnapping: Growing industry flourished with high-profile cases

25. Niger Delta Militancy: Attacks on oil installations

26. Pro-Biafra Movement: Tensions and violence in southeast region

27. Islamist Insurgency: Thousands killed and displaced throughout northern Nigeria

28. Banditry: Increased attacks in northern Nigeria

29. Armed Robbery: historic threat to citizens

30. Cult Violence: Frequent attacks and killings during 8 years.

31. Terrorist Threats: US warns citizens in Nigeria to flee (2022)

32. Security Personnel Attacks: 238 police officers killed (2022)

33. Impeachment Attempts: Lawmakers try to remove Buhari (July 2022)

34. Boko Haram Amnesty Program: Controversy over government’s handling

35. Deradicalization Programs: Initiatives to reintegrate former militants who later rejoin insurgency

36. Operation Safe Corridor: Program to rehabilitate Boko Haram members end in controversy

37. National Counter Terrorism Strategy: Updated in 2016 failed

38. Military Campaigns: Operations against Boko Haram and other groups collapsed

39. International Cooperation: Support from US, UK, and other countries

40. Humanitarian Crisis: Displacement and economic impact

41. Economic Consequences: $100 billion disappeared or lost due to insecurity

42. Agricultural Impact: Farming disrupted in northeast and North West region

43. IDP Crisis: Over 4 million displaced

44. Security Budget: Increased spending with mixed results

45. Corruption Allegations: Questions over security fund management

46. Leadership Criticism: Analysts question Buhari’s approach

47. Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Ongoing conflicts

48. Porous Borders: Security challenges due to border control issues

49. Armed Groups: Rise of non-state actors

50. Civilian Casualties: High numbers reported throughout Buhari’s tenure

– Prince Sunday Joshua Bako Danborno is an All Progressive Congress Stalwart and Real Estate Merchant