Iran's New Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Reportedly Injured in Early-War Airstrike, Continues Decision-Making

Sources close to Iran's power centers say Mojtaba Khamenei, the country's new leader, suffered severe facial disfigurement and leg damage in an airstrike targeting the leadership complex in central Tehran at the start of the war.

The same strike killed former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and several close family members, according to those sources.

Khamenei remains conscious and participates in major decisions on the war situation, internal crises and foreign negotiations via audio calls and indirect communication methods, the sources added.

No official images, videos or direct public appearances from Khamenei have emerged since the attack, fueling speculation inside and outside Iran.

Iranian state media has made limited references to him as a "جانباز" -- a term for a veteran with severe war injuries -- without disclosing details of his condition.

The first official messages attributed to him appeared in writing on March 12, stressing "resistance."

Unofficial reports citing U.S. intelligence suggest possible loss of a leg or permanent injury, though the CIA offered no comment.