Iran's new supreme leader is in a critical condition following an airstrike
Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is in a serious condition and is receiving treatment in the city of Qom. According to intelligence assessments, he is unable to fully carry out his duties, reports The Times.
A diplomatic note, based on data from US and Israeli intelligence agencies and shared with allies in the Gulf states, indicates that Khamenei is unconscious and in a serious medical condition. The document also reveals his whereabouts for the first time.
The same note states that the body of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, is being prepared for burial in Qom, which is considered the country’s religious capital. Intelligence has also noted preparations for the construction of a large mausoleum with several burial sites.
Iran has confirmed that Mojtaba Khamenei was wounded during the same US and Israeli airstrike that killed his father Ali Khamenei, his mother, his wife Zahra Haddad-Adel and one of his sons.
Since the start of the war, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public or spoken in person, although he was chosen as his father’s successor in early March. State television broadcast two addresses attributed to him, as well as showing a video created using artificial intelligence.
Iranian officials claim that the new leader continues to rule the country. At the same time, reports have emerged regarding his health, including claims that he is in a coma or has sustained injuries during the attack.
The uncertainty surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei’s condition calls into question his role in a state where the Supreme Leader holds complete political and religious authority.
US President Donald Trump has stated that he is negotiating with other Iranian representatives without involving the Supreme Leader.
Earlier, Iranian state media reported that Ali Khamenei was to be buried in the city of Mashhad. It was also reported that mourning ceremonies would be held in Tehran, though no date was announced. The state funeral was postponed due to the expected large number of attendees.
It is unclear whether Qom will become Ali Khamenei’s permanent resting place, given the security risks associated with holding public ceremonies.
