Israeli Source Denies Mojtaba Khamenei's Presence in Iran Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions

An Israeli security source informed the Saudi channel Al-Hadath on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Iran's Supreme Leader, is not currently in Iranian territory. The source added that statements attributed to Khamenei are actually written by IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi and his team. The source highlighted deep internal divisions within Iran threatening the Revolutionary Guards' existence and claimed Washington does not want Tel Aviv involved in retaliatory actions even if Iran attacks it. It was also alleged that Iran planned assassinations of Israeli figures in Tel Aviv as revenge for the killing of Ali Khamenei.

Yesterday, a written statement from Mojtaba Khamenei declared that former US President Donald Trump's signature is "invalid and void," following US officials' remarks about punishing Iran for non-compliance with agreements. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Qassem Garibabadi said Tehran has suspended all commitments under the memorandum of understanding with the US in response to American strikes.

About ten days ago, Israeli media reported that Mojtaba Khamenei is the key decision-maker in Iran, operating from hiding and effectively acting as Supreme Leader. Despite his influence, he has not appeared publicly, possibly due to plastic surgeries altering his appearance.

Meanwhile, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the completion of eight consecutive nights of strikes in Iran targeting coastal surveillance, air defense, missile storage, and Revolutionary Guard forces responsible for recent missile attacks on US troops in Jordan that killed two American soldiers. CENTCOM emphasized the readiness of over 50,000 US military personnel in the Middle East. Reports from the Wall Street Journal and New York Times confirmed casualties and damage to manned and unmanned aircraft in the Iranian strike.

US President Donald Trump expressed sorrow over the deaths, stating the soldiers died to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to avoid regional chaos. Israeli assessments suggest Trump may escalate the conflict further. Iran continues retaliatory fire on US bases in the Gulf and Middle East, warning of "decisive response" against any who assist the US.