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Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei in critical condition

Published 7 August 2026

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly in extremely critical condition, with unconfirmed rumors circulating among senior officials that he could die imminently. The reports, which originate from sources described as close to President Masoud Pezeshkian's administration, add to the profound uncertainty surrounding Iran's leadership since Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the role following his father's death earlier this year. Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed the severity of his condition.

Mojtaba Khamenei became Supreme Leader in early March 2026, just days after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in an airstrike on February 28, 2026, that is widely attributed to U.S. and Israeli forces. Mojtaba Khamenei was reportedly injured in that same attack. While Iranian officials have stated his injuries required only minor treatment, other reports have described severe facial burns and leg wounds requiring multiple surgeries and a prosthetic.

Since his appointment, the new Supreme Leader has been almost entirely absent from public life. He has made no verified public appearances, delivered no speeches, and has not met with his cabinet. Official state...

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