U.S. officials are skeptical that Khamenei's death will lead to a change in the regime.

Intelligence analyses prepared in recent days have noted that Khamenei's position could be taken not by reformers, but by even more hardline forces.

According to sources, officials currently do not see the signs of military fracture necessary for a successful uprising.

It is also emphasized that because the leaders of the "Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps" rely on a broad network of loyalty, their surrender is considered unlikely.