The US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has said that Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is wounded but still alive, citing American intelligence assessments during a recent press briefing amid the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran.
Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth said US sources believe the Iranian leader survived the military strikes but suffered injuries.
According to him, intelligence information indicates that Khamenei was “wounded and likely disfigured,” though he remains alive and continues to play a role in Iran’s leadership.
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The remarks came as Washington continued its military campaign and pressure on Tehran during the ongoing regional conflict.
US officials say the attacks targeted key Iranian military infrastructure and leadership networks as part of broader operations against the Iranian regime’s military capabilities.
Khamenei, who became Iran’s Supreme Leader in March 2026 following the death of his father, former leader Ali Khamenei, has largely remained out of public view since reports of the strike that killed several senior figures.
His prolonged absence from public appearances has fueled speculation about his health and the extent of the injuries he sustained.
Despite the injuries, sources close to Iran’s leadership suggest Khamenei is still involved in strategic decision-making and communication within the government.
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However, no confirmed video or audio appearance has been released since the reports of the attack, adding to uncertainty about his condition and influence inside the Iranian political system.
The situation has drawn global attention as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high, with analysts warning that uncertainty over Iran’s leadership could further complicate diplomatic efforts and regional stability.
Meanwhile, officials in the United States say intelligence monitoring of Iran’s leadership structure continues as the conflict evolves.
