Report: Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Has 'Escape Plan' to Russia Amid Intensifying Protests

Contingency Plan Revealed by British Newspaper

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reportedly has an 'escape plan' to flee to Russia should nationwide protests in the Islamic Republic intensify to a critical point where security forces can no longer maintain control or begin to desert. This revelation comes from a report published by the British newspaper The Times on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

The alleged contingency, dubbed 'Plan B,' outlines a scenario where the 86-year-old leader would depart Tehran with a close circle of up to 20 individuals, including family members and aides. Among those reportedly included is Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, who is widely considered a potential successor.

Russia as a Sanctuary and Financial Preparations

According to intelligence sources cited by The Times, Russia is identified as the intended destination for Khamenei. Former Israeli intelligence official Beni Sabti, who fled the Iranian regime, suggested that Moscow would be the only viable sanctuary, noting Khamenei's reported admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin and a perceived cultural affinity between Iran and Russia.

The report also indicates that preparations for such a departure include the gathering of assets, properties abroad, and cash to facilitate a safe passage. Khamenei is believed to control a vast financial empire, including the powerful Setad organization. A 2013 Reuters investigation estimated these holdings to be worth approximately $95 billion.

Context of Intensifying Protests and Historical Parallels

The alleged escape plan emerges amidst ongoing and intensifying protests across Iran, fueled by economic hardships and discontent. These demonstrations have spread to numerous cities and religious centers. On January 3, 2026, Ayatollah Khamenei publicly stated that 'rioters must be put in their place,' signaling a potential hardening of the state's response to the unrest.

The current wave of protests is considered the largest since the demonstrations that followed the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. The Times report draws a parallel between Khamenei's alleged plan and the reported flight of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to Moscow in December 2024, when opposition forces were closing in on Damascus.

Official Silence and Broader Implications

As of the publication of The Times report, there has been no official comment from Iranian or Russian authorities regarding the alleged escape plan. The report underscores the perceived fragility within the Iranian leadership as it grapples with internal dissent and external pressures. The potential for such a high-profile departure highlights the significant challenges facing the Islamic Republic amid sustained public unrest.