The British newspaper The Times, citing an intelligence report, wrote that if protests in Iran escalate further and the government fails to fully control them, a "backup plan" is ready for the country's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the publication, in such a scenario, he could be evacuated to Moscow.
The document states that the main "signal" for the launch of the plan may be an increase in cases of desertion, non-compliance with orders, or switching to the side of demonstrators in the army and security structures. At this time, 86-year-old Khomeini is expected to leave Tehran with approximately 20 people, including his closest aides and family members. The source states that "Plan B" was compiled for close circles of Khaminai, including Mujtaba, who is mentioned as his son and potential successor.
The publication also cites the views of Bani Sabti, a former Israeli intelligence officer of Iranian origin: he said that in this case, Khamenei could head towards Moscow. The article also notes that the plan also includes issues of assets, real estate, and cash abroad to ensure a "safe exit." (This information is based on sources from The Times, without official confirmation.)
According to The Times, after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran last summer, the Ayatollah has become both spiritually and physically weakened, so there are rumors that he is less visible to the public.
However, in parallel with this, Reuters wrote on January 3 about Khaminai's appeal, stating that he "did not bow his head" against the backdrop of the protests.
The protests, according to reports, expanded following the devaluation of the national currency and increased inflationary pressure at the end of December. Bloomberg also highlighted the rise in protests against the backdrop of the currency crisis in Tehran around December 29, 2025.
Some reports indicate that law enforcement agencies used tear gas, water spray, and other means to disperse the demonstrations.
In short: the current situation in Iran raises the question "which side will be heavier?" - economic pressure, stability of power structures, or political decisions. In the coming days, the main focus will be on the geography of the demonstrations, the mood of security forces, and the next steps of official Tehran.
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