Trump and Khamenei
By Bose
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Fresh uncertainty surrounds the condition of Iran’s newly installed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, after United States President Donald Trump suggested that the cleric may have survived recent hostilities but could be seriously injured.
The speculation comes amid escalating tensions following the outbreak of the United States–Israel war with Iran, during which Iran’s longtime Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed on the first day of the conflict.
Speaking in an interview with the Fox News programme The Brian Kilmeade Show, Trump said he believed Mojtaba Khamenei was still alive, though possibly wounded.
“I think he probably is alive,” Trump said. “I think he is damaged, but I believe he’s still alive in some form.”
Mojtaba Khamenei was selected as Iran’s new Supreme Leader on Sunday by the Assembly of Experts, the powerful clerical council responsible for choosing the country’s highest authority.
However, the new leader has not appeared publicly since the announcement of his appointment, fuelling speculation about his condition and whereabouts. His first remarks to the Iranian public were delivered indirectly on Thursday, when a television presenter read out a prepared statement attributed to him on state media.
The absence of a public appearance has intensified rumours inside and outside Iran about possible injuries sustained during the early stages of the conflict and about the stability of Iran’s leadership at a time of war.
Analysts say the opaque nature of Iran’s political system often leaves room for uncertainty during leadership transitions, especially during periods of military confrontation and domestic tension.
For now, Tehran has offered no official clarification on Mojtaba Khamenei’s health or whether he will address the nation directly.
