President Donald Trump said he believes Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is alive but “damaged” following recent military strikes.
Mojtaba Khamenei, whose father was the former supreme leader of Iran, has not been seen publicly since his selection on Sunday by a clerical assembly. His first statements were read on state television on Thursday.
An Iranian official told Reuters that the newly appointed supreme leader was lightly injured but continues to operate despite being described as war-wounded.
Trump said in an interview on Fox News’ “The Brian Kilmeade Show,” “I think he probably is alive. I think he is damaged, but I think he’s probably alive in some form, you know.” His comments were published by Fox News late Thursday.
In his first statements, Khamenei vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz shut and called on neighboring countries to close US bases or risk being targeted by Iran.
The US and Israel began attacks on Iran on February 28, leading to retaliatory strikes from Iran on Israel and several Gulf countries with US bases.
The conflict has killed thousands and created volatility in financial markets. Despite the violence, leaders of Iran, Israel, and the United States have vowed to continue their respective campaigns.
Iran’s new supreme leader plays a critical role in coordinating military and political responses during this crisis, highlighting the significance of leadership continuity despite the alleged injuries.
Analysts note that Khamenei’s public absence and reported injuries have fueled speculation about Iran’s command structure, while his first televised messages demonstrate an intent to assert authority and maintain national defense strategies.
As the war enters its third week, global leaders continue to monitor developments closely, emphasizing diplomacy while preparing for further escalation in the Middle East.
The situation underscores the challenges of maintaining regional stability when the position of the supreme leader is under intense scrutiny and the country faces ongoing military and political pressures.
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