Why is Iran’s Supreme Leader missing in action? Govt hiding Mojtaba Khamenei to prevent political crisis amid war with US? Know what is happening
Nearly six weeks after a major military strike by Israel and the United States reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, questions are growing over the continued absence of his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Despite being named the country’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba has not appeared in public, nor has he been heard speaking directly, raising uncertainty at a time when Iran is facing one of its most critical crises.
Silence sparks questions over leadership
Since assuming the top position, Mojtaba Khamenei has remained out of sight. While statements attributed to him have been aired on Iranian state television, there has been no visual or audio confirmation of his presence.
His absence stands in contrast to his father’s approach. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had continued to appear publicly despite threats from the US and Israel, choosing to remain visible during periods of intense pressure rather than retreating from public life.
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This sudden silence has led to speculation about Mojtaba’s condition and whereabouts, especially as tensions in the region continue to rise.
Reports of injury and remote decision-making
According to media reports citing sources, Mojtaba Khamenei may have been injured in the February 28 strike, allegedly suffering serious leg injuries.
Other reports suggest he is still involved in governance but is conducting meetings with officials via audio conferencing. If true, this raises concerns about how actively he is able to oversee critical decisions during wartime.
There are also growing doubts about whether he is fully aware of ongoing diplomatic developments, including potential peace talks expected to take place in Islamabad.
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Experts question his role in key decisions
Ali Vaez, director of the Iran Project at the International Crisis Group, told CNN that Mojtaba may not currently be in a position to make major decisions or closely manage negotiations.
He suggested that Iran’s political system could be using Mojtaba’s name to approve decisions and strategies, while shielding him from internal criticism during a volatile period.
According to Vaez, unlike his father, who frequently addressed the public and commented on negotiations, Mojtaba’s absence allows officials to invoke his authority without direct accountability.
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Confusion within Iran’s leadership
The uncertainty over leadership comes as Iran faces mounting internal and external challenges. US President Donald Trump has claimed that significant changes have taken place within Iran’s power structure, even suggesting that Washington is engaging with new figures.
Following the reported deaths of several senior leaders in recent attacks, new officials have stepped into key roles. However, conflicting statements from within the government have added to the confusion.
For instance, Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi publicly announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, only for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to contradict the claim, stating the route remained closed.
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Iranian state media has also reflected this uncertainty, with reports acknowledging confusion within society and calling for clarity on major decisions that require leadership approval.
Mounting pressure amid war and uncertainty
Iran is currently navigating a high-stakes conflict while also dealing with internal criticism and leadership ambiguity. President Masoud Pezeshkian faced backlash after apologising to neighbouring Arab countries over recent attacks, later being forced to revise his remarks.
These developments have intensified questions about who is truly in charge of decision-making in Tehran. With Mojtaba Khamenei still out of public view, speculation continues over whether power is being exercised behind the scenes or by other figures within the system.
As the conflict evolves and diplomatic efforts remain uncertain, the absence of Iran’s top leader has become a central issue, both domestically and internationally.