Trump Denies Iranian Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Is Dead, Details His Severe Injuries

New rumors have emerged within Iran's ruling circles about the possible death of Mojtaba Khamenei, the country's supreme leader. Leftist opposition journalist Arash Azizi reported in The Atlantic that Mojtaba's prolonged absence from public view and the decline in official communications from his office have fueled speculation about his health. According to Azizi, some government insiders and regime affiliates believe Mojtaba may have died recently due to injuries sustained in February, while others suggest he might be in a state of brain death. Two Iranian government sources told IranWire that senior regime officials are deeply concerned about his condition, fearing he could die at any moment. About two weeks ago, an internal message urged Iranian citizens to pray for Mojtaba's recovery, with reports indicating his life was "under threat" and warnings from some clerics about the possibility of his assassination.

Azizi emphasized the broader implications of uncertainty surrounding Mojtaba's health, given his central role in Iran's constitutional power structure and his past function as the ultimate arbiter in disputes among power centers. His absence comes amid increasing reports of internal regime conflicts, raising concerns that decision-making at the top could be impaired. Azizi noted the regime faces a critical dilemma over Iran's future direction, especially whether to pursue diplomacy or escalate confrontation, but the constitutional authority to decide remains unclear due to doubts about Mojtaba's status.

In response to these rumors, former U.S. President Donald Trump, during a radio interview with Glenn Beck, denied that Mojtaba Khamenei is dead but confirmed he was seriously injured. Trump stated, "I don't think he's dead, he was badly hurt," specifying that the injuries affected the left side of his body, including his left hand and foot. Trump also criticized the Iranian leadership's efforts to project an image of full control, saying, "They put on a whole show about constantly having to go back to him and get his blessing." This marks the most detailed public account so far of Mojtaba's alleged injuries.