Media reports citing sources close to the inner circle of the new Iranian leader Mohammad Khamenei reveal that he is still recovering from injuries described as 'severe and disfiguring', sustained during the airstrike that targeted the command complex in Tehran, which resulted in the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, at the onset of the war.
According to the sources, Khamenei Jr. suffered facial disfigurement and serious injuries to one or both of his legs, amid unconfirmed speculations of a possible leg amputation.
Managing the State from Behind the Scenes… Only Audio Meetings
Despite his health condition, data indicates that Khamenei continues to play an active political role, participating in meetings with senior officials via audio calls, contributing to sensitive decisions related to the war and negotiations with the United States.
This style of 'invisible' leadership raises serious questions about his ability to hold power during one of the most perilous phases in modern Iranian history.
Complete Absence from Media… Photos Expected in Weeks
Since his appointment on March 8, Khamenei has not appeared in any photo, video recording, or even audio, intensifying speculation about his health status and actual position.
Sources suggest that photos of him may be released within a month or two, with the likelihood of his public appearance only when his health condition and security circumstances permit.
'Wounded Veteran'.. An Official Description That Raises Concerns
In a notable reference, Iranian state media described him with the term 'Wounded Veteran', a term used to refer to those with serious disabilities during wars, reinforcing the hypothesis of him suffering permanent injuries.
American officials, including Pete Hegseth, have previously hinted that his injuries may have significantly altered his appearance.
The Revolutionary Guard Advances… Has the Leader's Authority Diminished?
In the absence of Khamenei from the scene, estimates suggest that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has become the most influential player in strategic decisions, especially during the war.
Experts believe that the new leader, despite his previous connections within the system, does not yet possess the absolute influence that his father enjoyed, which may reshape power centers within the Islamic Republic.
Leadership Without Presence… Fears of a Political Vacuum
Khamenei's continued absence from the public eye raises widespread debate within Iran, as questions circulate on social media about who is actually running the country.
While regime supporters argue that his disappearance is justified for security reasons to avoid targeting him, others believe that this absence opens the door to unclear scenarios for the future of governance.
Crucial Negotiations with Washington… Decisions Made in the Shadows
This ambiguity coincides with the start of sensitive talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad, amid anticipation of results that could redraw the contours of the conflict in the region.
But the most pressing question remains: Is Mohammad Khamenei truly leading this phase… or is the decision now in the hands of other parties within the system?