Reports have claimed that Mojtaba Khamenei, recently elevated as Iran’s Supreme Leader, is in critical condition and undergoing treatment at a hospital in Qom.
According to a report by The Times, citing a diplomatic memo shared by US-Israeli intelligence with Gulf allies, Khamenei was seriously injured in the same February 28 airstrike that reportedly killed his father, Ali Khamenei. The injuries have allegedly left him unable to actively participate in governance.
The memo states that Khamenei is “in a severe condition” and not involved in decision-making, while also revealing his location for the first time since assuming the top post. Qom, situated about 140 km south of Tehran, holds deep religious significance in Shia Islam.
Questions over leadership and visibility
Khamenei’s absence from public view since taking office has fueled speculation about his condition. Rumours had even suggested that the 56-year-old cleric may have died in the same strike that killed his father.
However, Iranian officials have repeatedly maintained that he remains in charge and continues to play a role in shaping the country’s response to the ongoing regional conflict.
State media has also attempted to counter speculation, airing statements attributed to him and releasing visuals purportedly showing him in a war room reviewing strategic maps.
In a recent message, Khamenei condemned the killing of a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intelligence chief and asserted that targeted assassinations would not weaken the regime, while also criticising remarks made by Donald Trump.
While these claims remain unverified, the conflicting narratives have intensified uncertainty around Iran’s leadership at a critical juncture.
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