WASHINGTON, D.C., Apr 24: Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was seriously wounded in a U.S.-Israeli airstrike that also killed his father and predecessor, Ali Khamenei, but is reported to be “mentally sharp,” according to The New York Times (NYT).
Citing unnamed Iranian officials, the report said Mojtaba Khamenei has, at least for now, delegated decision-making authority to senior commanders within the Revolutionary Guards’ ideological army.
The report added that Khamenei has not made any public appearances since taking over leadership from his father and has only issued written statements, fuelling speculation about his condition and whether he is still alive.
Although he was “gravely wounded in the February 28 airstrike,” the NYT cited officials as saying he remains mentally alert and actively engaged in affairs.
“One leg was operated on three times, and he is awaiting a prosthetic. He underwent surgery on one hand and is slowly regaining function. His face and lips were severely burnt, making it difficult for him to speak,” the report said, adding that he is expected to require plastic surgery in the future.
Security around Khamenei reportedly remains extremely tight, with access heavily restricted. He is said to be in hiding, communicating only through handwritten messages.
The report further stated that Revolutionary Guards commanders are not directly meeting him, although President Masoud Pezeshkian, a trained heart surgeon, has been involved in aspects of his medical care.
It also noted that senior Guards commanders, previously seen as a major internal power bloc during tensions with the U.S. and Israel, have now been brought under tighter control. They are currently overseeing military strategy, including operations related to the Strait of Hormuz blockade, according to the report. (Agency)
