An Iranian health official has claimed that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei suffered only “superficial” injuries during U.S.-Israeli airstrikes carried out in late February. The statement is one of the first detailed public comments from Iranian authorities about Khamenei’s condition since the attacks that killed several senior Iranian leaders, including his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
According to Iran’s Health Ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour, Mojtaba Khamenei received minor wounds to his face, head, and legs during the strikes. The official said the injuries were not serious and required only basic medical treatment, including a few stitches. He added that the Supreme Leader did not suffer any major physical damage or long-term medical complications.
The statement comes after months of speculation about Khamenei’s health and whereabouts. Since becoming Iran’s Supreme Leader on March 8, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly and has mainly communicated through written statements. His absence from television broadcasts and public events had led to widespread rumors that he was seriously injured or unable to fully lead the country.
The strikes in February were part of a major military operation carried out by the United States and Israel during the 2026 Iran conflict. Iranian state media confirmed that former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks, along with several senior military and security officials. The operation triggered heavy retaliation from Iran and sharply increased tensions across the Middle East.
In March, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had claimed Mojtaba Khamenei was believed to be alive but wounded and possibly disfigured. Iranian officials strongly rejected those reports, calling them exaggerated and politically motivated. The latest statement from Iran’s Health Ministry appears aimed at countering international rumors and reassuring the public about the Supreme Leader’s condition.
Reports from international media suggest Khamenei has continued leading Iran through secure communication channels while remaining under heavy protection. Sources say Iranian authorities have limited his public exposure due to fears of further assassination attempts or intelligence operations targeting the country’s leadership.
The issue remains politically important because Iran is currently involved in sensitive negotiations with the United States over sanctions, nuclear activities, and regional security. Analysts believe uncertainty surrounding the Supreme Leader’s health has affected decision-making inside Iran and slowed some diplomatic discussions.
Despite Iran’s latest statement, questions still remain internationally about Mojtaba Khamenei’s health and ability to lead during a period of major military and political pressure. However, Iranian officials continue to insist that the country’s leadership remains stable and fully operational after the deadly strikes earlier this year.
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