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New Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly “unable to be involved in any decision-making" weeks after being severely injured in the U.S.-Israeli strikes that launched a war and killed his father and predecessor Ali Khamenei on February 28, according to an intelligence memo via the Times of London.
The younger Khamenei hasn't been seen since the initial strike and only written statements provide questionable proof of his actual status in power since reportedly taking over. The 56-year-old is reportedly undergoing medical treatment for a "severe condition" in the holy city of Qom for injuries sustained in the strike, according to a memo based on U.S. and Israeli intelligence.
“Mojtaba Khamenei is being treated in Qom in a severe condition, unable to be involved in any decision-making by the regime,” the memo states.
Conflicting reports on Khamenei's injuries were shared since 'Operation Epic Fury' was launched in late February and his public absence has fueled speculation. Some reports indicated that he only sustained a fractured foot and minor injuries, while others claimed he was in a coma.
Khamenei has been reported to have issued orders and written statements broadcast via state media anchors since succeeding his late father last month.
“I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs,” he supposedly said in his initial written statement shared on March 12. “The retaliation we have in mind is not limited only to the martyrdom of the great leader of the revolution [Ayatollah Ali Khamenei]; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy constitutes a separate case in the file of revenge.”