Speculation is mounting over the condition of Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared in public since his selection, with some reports suggesting he may be on a ventilator due to critical injuries.
The New York Times reported on the 10th (local time) that Mojtaba was injured on October 27, the first day of the U.S. "Operation Fierce Fury" that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Multiple Iranian officials told the NYT that "Mojtaba injured his leg and other areas but remains conscious." This would explain why he has not appeared on video or before the public despite days passing since his selection.
Earlier indications of his injury had emerged. Iranian state television referred to Mojtaba shortly after his selection as a "Janbaz of Ramadan" (wounded war veteran). Israeli media have added weight to the injury reports, citing the country's security officials. Some accounts suggest more severe wounds. Ehsan Karami, a dissident influencer and former Iranian state broadcaster (IRIB) presenter, claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that "Mojtaba is hospitalized at Iran's Sina Hospital with serious abdominal and leg injuries and is currently dependent on a ventilator." U.S. Secretary of Defense (War) Pete Hegseth, when asked about Mojtaba's condition, said only that "at this time, we cannot comment on his status."
Some observers suggest Mojtaba is simply maintaining his characteristic "reclusive leadership" style. He was known as a veiled figure with no prior public office before becoming Supreme Leader. Analysts say he may be continuing his pattern of wielding power as a "shadow powerbroker" behind his father. Others note his current governance approach aligns with his established method of projecting mystical charisma through close networks with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
However, analysts warn that prolonged absence will disadvantage the Iranian regime. Iran International, a dissident outlet, noted that an extended leadership vacuum would significantly diminish the effect of the rapid succession appointment, which was intended to maintain internal unity amid U.S.-Israeli attacks. The absence of the Supreme Leader's position amid continuous airstrikes and no ceasefire posture from hostile nations could heighten public anxiety. Opposition to Mojtaba within the leadership prior to his selection adds to current uncertainties. Karim Sadjadpour, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said: "Mojtaba, the second son of Khamenei who was selected as Iran's next leader, is focused on survival rather than governance, and he is likely to be merely a transitional figure for Iran."