Lauge Risom Koch 
Iranian officials are attempting to reassure the public that supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei remains in control despite his continued absence from public view.
More than two months after becoming Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei has yet to appear publicly, fuelling speculation over his health, authority and whereabouts.
Iranian officials have increasingly sought to reassure the public that the country’s new leader remains in control behind the scenes.
Limited appearances
According to Digi24, citing the Financial Times, Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen publicly since succeeding his father, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, earlier this year.
Iranian officials have recently begun releasing details about his condition following widespread rumours surrounding his health.
President Masoud Pezeshkian said publicly this month that he had met with Khamenei, while Tehran later announced meetings between the new supreme leader and senior military commanders.
The reports appeared aimed at countering speculation that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards were effectively running the country.
Attack injuries
Iranian officials also released new details regarding injuries Khamenei allegedly suffered during a February attack on his father’s compound.
According to Digi24, cleric Mazaher Hosseini claimed Mojtaba Khamenei narrowly survived the strike that reportedly killed several relatives.
“He was on his way, about to climb the stairs when a missile hit,” Hosseini said.
“He was slightly injured in his back and kneecap.”
Power behind the scenes
The Financial Times reported that Khamenei has so far communicated mainly through written statements rather than speeches or public appearances.
Diplomats cited by the newspaper said strict security measures and fears of Israeli assassination attempts have complicated communications between the leader, military officials and the government.
Some reports suggest messages are being delivered manually to avoid electronic tracking.
US intelligence assessments cited by CNN reportedly concluded that Khamenei still plays an important role in shaping Iran’s military strategy.
Internal tensions
The absence of public appearances has intensified debate over who truly holds power in Iran.
According to Digi24, some analysts believe senior Revolutionary Guard figures now wield growing influence over military and diplomatic decisions.
Others argue Khamenei remains the ultimate authority despite relying heavily on military commanders during the ongoing crisis.
Analyst Vali Nasr said the situation remains deliberately ambiguous as Iranian authorities attempt to protect the country’s leadership from renewed attacks.
Sources: Digi24, Financial Times, CNN
