Iran TV gives update on 'severely’ injured supreme leader as whereabouts still a mystery

Following his appointment as the new Iranian Ayatollah of the Islamic Republic after his father’s assassination, Mojtaba has not been seen in public and no footage of him has been released, sparking worldwide speculation about his genuine condition. In a new intelligence assessment, Mojtaba is reportedly being treated for a “severe” medical condition and undergoing treatment at a secure site in Qom. The diplomatic memo, understood to be based on American and Israeli intelligence, suggests that Khamenei is unconscious and is being treated about 87 miles from Tehran. It also states that he is “unable to be involved in any decision making”.

Two weeks ago, the US President said that Mojtaba was in serious condition and that it was not even known whether he was alive.

Iranian officials previously confirmed that he was wounded in the same attack that killed several members of his family, including his mother, wife and one of his sons. At the time, authorities described his injuries as “minor”.

However, since then, Iranian authorities have tried to project business as usual and have occasionally published written statements in his name, but without any proof that he is in fact alive.

The memo also states that the body of Ali Khamenei has been transferred to Qom where preparations are underway for burial.

According to the assessment, work has begun on a large mausoleum capable of accommodating multiple graves, suggesting that other members of the ruling family may also be laid to rest there.

On February 28, Mojtaba’s father, who had become increasingly reclusive since the Twelve-Day War in June 2025, was assassinated in Tehran as part of a series of Israeli airstrikes aimed at high-ranking Iranian officials. Khamenei’s death was confirmed by the Iranian government on March 1, as well as the announcement of 40 days of mourning. His death occurred as part of a wider joint operation by the US and Israel, using strategic locations intelligence from the CIA to determine the whereabouts of several leaders.