Donald Trump has said he believes Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, remains alive but has been significantly weakened following the early days of the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran.
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership after the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during the opening phase of the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Speaking in remarks published by Fox News, Trump said the new Iranian leader appears to have survived but suggested that his position and influence may have been seriously affected by the war.
“He is alive, but damaged,” Trump said.
Since his selection by Iran’s clerical assembly on Sunday, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly, fueling speculation over his condition and the stability of Iran’s leadership during the conflict. His first official remarks were instead delivered through a state television presenter on Thursday.
In those comments, Khamenei vowed that Iran would maintain restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, and warned neighbouring states hosting U.S. military facilities that they could face retaliation if those bases remain operational.
He also urged regional governments to shut down American military installations within their territories or risk becoming direct targets in the escalating conflict.
The war began on February 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes on Iranian targets. Since then, Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting American military assets.
As the conflict approaches its second week, thousands of casualties have been reported across multiple countries, while financial markets continue to react sharply to fears of prolonged instability in the Middle East.
Despite growing international concern, leaders in Tehran, Washington, and Tel Aviv have maintained hardline positions, each signalling determination to continue military operations.
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