Nicosia, Cyprus. Iran’s ambassador to Cyprus said Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, was wounded in US-Israeli strikes that killed his father on the opening day of the war. The comments, given to the Guardian, marked the first confirmation by an Iranian official of injuries to the 56-year-old cleric.
Ambassador’s account of injuries
Alireza Salarian, Iran’s ambassador in Nicosia, said Mojtaba Khamenei sustained wounds to his legs, arm and shoulder during the bombing. He told the Guardian he believed Khamenei was in hospital and not in a position to deliver a speech.
Election and absence from public view
Mojtaba Khamenei was elected supreme leader of the Islamic Republic on Sunday following his father’s death. He has not appeared publicly since his election, prompting speculation about his condition.
Conflicting statements
A Telegram statement earlier attributed to the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian said Khamenei was “safe and unharmed.” Salarian’s remarks to the Guardian contradicted that account.
How do you assess the impact of these conflicting reports on public understanding of Iran’s leadership situation?
