Reuters reports that Iran’s newly appointed leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, sustained severe injuries in an attack that also killed his predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Injuries to Mojtaba Khamenei
According to sources cited by Reuters, Mojtaba Khamenei was wounded in a U.S.-Israeli attack on the Supreme Leader’s headquarters in central Tehran. The same strike resulted in the death of his father and predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had ruled Iran since 1989.
Reuters details the extent of Mojtaba Khamenei’s injuries, stating his face was disfigured and he suffered serious damage to one or both legs.
Continued Political Activity
Three individuals close to the new leader indicated to the agency that despite his injuries, Khamenei is recovering and remains fully mentally capable. He is reportedly participating in meetings with high-ranking officials via video conference and involved in decision-making regarding the war and negotiations with Washington.
Since his appointment on March 8th, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public. Iranian authorities have not issued an official statement regarding his injuries, though a state television presenter used terminology typically reserved for those severely wounded in war when referring to him.
Conflicting Reports on Khamenei’s Condition
Reuters notes that this is the most detailed account of Khamenei’s health in weeks. Reports align with earlier statements from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on March 13th, who said Khamenei was “wounded and likely maimed.” One source familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments believes the new leader may have lost a leg.
However, a different account was presented by the British newspaper *The Times* on Tuesday, which described an intelligence note indicating Khamenei is undergoing treatment in a coma and unable to govern. Reuters, based on conversations with those around him, describes a different scenario, suggesting Khamenei remains politically active and capable of leading the country despite his severe injuries.
