Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has confirmed that the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, remains in full health and continues to oversee the ongoing situation.
Trump Questions Leader’s Survival
Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently expressed skepticism about Mojtaba Khamenei’s status, stating, “I don’t know if he’s even alive. So far, nobody’s been able to show him.” He added, “I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender.”
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in initial Israeli-U.S. strikes that ignited the conflict. He has not appeared publicly since taking office.
First Statement from Hiding
Last Thursday, Mojtaba Khamenei released his initial address on the war, delivered via a state television news anchor rather than in person. The message omitted details about his health or whereabouts, fueling widespread speculation.
Israeli intelligence assessments indicate he sustained injuries during the early attacks, which also killed other family members and key regime figures. Should he be alive, officials believe he operates from a fortified, secret location to counter potential Israeli assassination attempts.
U.S. Defense Secretary’s Assessment
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remarked on Friday that Mojtaba Khamenei appears “wounded and likely disfigured.” He questioned the absence of video or audio, noting, “Iran has plenty of cameras and plenty of voice recorders. Why a written statement? I think you know why.” Hegseth further described him as “scared, he’s injured, he’s on the run, and he lacks legitimacy,” referencing his father’s death.
Vows of Retaliation
In the broadcast statement, Mojtaba Khamenei pledged revenge for losses incurred in the conflict. “I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs,” he declared. He emphasized, “The retaliation we have in mind is not limited only to the martyrdom of the great leader of the Revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy constitutes a separate case in the file of revenge.”
