Trump Says Iran’s New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Likely Alive but “Damaged”

Trump Says Iran’s New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Likely Alive but “Damaged”

U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he believes Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely alive but “damaged”, as uncertainty continues over the cleric’s health following the outbreak of the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel. Trump made the remarks in an interview on Fox News’ The Brian Kilmeade Show, noting that while Khamenei may have survived recent attacks, he could have been injured during the opening strikes. “I think he probably is alive. I think he is damaged, but I think he’s probably alive in some form,” Trump said.

Since being selected by Iran’s clerical leadership after the death of his father, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba has not been seen publicly. Iranian state media described him as “war-wounded,” while officials told Reuters that he was lightly injured but continuing his duties. Iranian ambassador to Cyprus, Alireza Salarian, also reported hearing that Khamenei was injured in the opening strikes, affecting his legs and arm, and speculated he may have been hospitalized. Despite these reports, there has been no confirmed public appearance from the new leader, heightening speculation about his condition.

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In his first official statement as supreme leader, Khamenei vowed that Iran would keep the strategic Strait of Hormuz closed and warned countries hosting U.S. military bases that they could face attacks if hostilities continued. However, Tehran later clarified through its U.N. envoy that the strait would remain open under international law.

The conflict began on February 28, 2026, when U.S. and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes on Iranian targets. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on U.S. military bases and allied territories, resulting in thousands of casualties and escalating tensions across the Middle East. Trump’s comments reflect ongoing uncertainty among U.S. officials and intelligence agencies regarding Khamenei’s status and the potential impact on regional stability. The situation continues to develop as world powers monitor the evolving Iran–U.S.–Israel conflict.

Trump Says Iran’s New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Likely Alive but “Damaged”