Iran’s latest Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was wounded in the U.S.-Israeli airstrikes that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, Iranian state television confirmed Wednesday.
The confirmation came as speculation mounted regarding the health and whereabouts of the 56-year-old Khamenei, who was appointed to the position by an assembly of Iranian clerics on Sunday but has not appeared publicly since. State television described him as a “janbaz,” or “wounded veteran” of the conflict Iran has termed the “Ramadan War,” according to reports from Sky News and the Times of Israel.
An Iranian official told Reuters that Khamenei sustained only light injuries and continues to fulfill his duties as Supreme Leader. However, conflicting reports have emerged, with some sources claiming more severe injuries, including the potential loss of a leg and internal injuries. These claims have been denied by Iranian officials, according to the Economic Times.
CNN reported that a source indicated Khamenei fractured his foot on the first day of the conflict, likewise sustaining a bruised eye and minor facial cuts. The airstrikes, aimed at Iran’s leadership, also resulted in the deaths of Khamenei’s mother, sister, and wife, state television reported.
Reports circulating in media and online have alleged that Khamenei may be in a coma following the attack, though these claims remain unverified. Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, acknowledged hearing reports of Khamenei’s injuries but stated that contacts indicated he was in good health, according to Sky News.
The Independent reported that the initial airstrikes were intended to decapitate Iran’s leadership. The lack of public appearances by the new Supreme Leader has fueled further speculation about his condition and ability to govern. As of Wednesday, no further statements regarding Khamenei’s health or future public appearances have been issued by Iranian authorities.
