Reuters has published a report claiming that Iran's supreme leader was wounded in an attack that killed his father and predecessor, Ali Hamenei. Similar claims have been made by other media outlets previously.
According to Reuters, citing information from three sources, Mojtaba Hamenei is still recovering from severe facial and leg injuries sustained in an airstrike that killed his father at the start of the war. They report that Hamenei's face was disfigured in the attack on the supreme leader's complex in central Tehran, and he also suffered significant injuries to one or both legs. However, the 56-year-old is recovering from his wounds and remains mentally sharp, according to sources who requested anonymity to discuss sensitive matters with Reuters. It is noted that Hamenei participates in meetings with high-ranking officials via audio conference and is involved in decision-making on important issues, including the war and negotiations with Washington.
His location remains unknown.
Statements from individuals close to Hamenei's inner circle provide the most detailed description of the leader's condition. Reuters could not independently verify their accounts. Hamenei's whereabouts, condition, and ability to govern largely remain a mystery to the public, with no published photos, videos, or audio recordings since the airstrike and his subsequent appointment as his father's replacement on March 8.
Iran's mission to the United Nations did not respond to Reuters' inquiries about the extent of Hamenei's injuries or the reasons why he has not appeared in any pictures or recordings.
There has been no official Iranian statement regarding the extent of Hamenei's injuries. However, a news anchor on state television described him as "janbaz," a term used for those severely wounded in war.
Reports of Hamenei's injuries align with a statement made by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on March 13, when he said Hamenei was "wounded and likely disfigured."
When will he appear in public?
A source familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments told Reuters that it is believed Hamenei lost a leg. The CIA declined to comment on Hamenei's condition.
One person close to Hamenei's circle said that images of the supreme leader could be expected to be released within one or two months, and he might even appear in public by then, although all three sources emphasized that he would only appear when his health and security situation allow.
The Telegraph reported that Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Hamenei, survived a devastating U.S.-Israeli airstrike in late February thanks to sheer coincidence.
According to an audio recording obtained by the mentioned media outlet, Mojtaba Hamenei left his residence just minutes before the strike.