Iranian state media released an undated video on August 8 showing Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei teaching a religious class, marking his first known video appearance since assuming office in March 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]. The footage appears to have been filmed before the Iran war broke out in late February 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Mojtaba Khamenei sustained injuries on February 28, 2026, during a US-Israel joint airstrike that killed his father and former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Reported injuries included a leg fracture and facial scratches [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 6, 7]. Despite this, Iranian officials have repeatedly stated his wounds are not serious and that he continues to perform leadership duties [1, 2, 8, 6]. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently met with Mojtaba, although details of the meeting remain undisclosed [2, 6]. Pezeshkian said, “Currently it is very difficult to reach him, but nonetheless his presence remains a very important source of strength for us to continue” [8].
Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly in person since taking office, leading to intense speculation and rumors about his health and whereabouts [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 6, 7]. Opposition and foreign media have claimed he is critically ill or near death, allegations strongly denied by Iranian officials and semi-official outlets. Mehr News Agency, which released the video, said more footage and documents will follow to confirm his health and active leadership role [3, 4, 6]. Basij Deputy Commander Qasem Qoraishi said the video release was “just the beginning of a new round of Mojtaba imagery aiming to emphasize the Supreme Leader’s good health and active participation in government decision-making.” [6]
However, skepticism remains outside Iran. Some sources and social media users have questioned the video’s authenticity, suggesting it could be AI-generated or old footage reused to mislead the public [5, 7]. U.S. President Donald Trump claimed many Iranian senior leaders have been killed and said Mojtaba Khamenei is dead, a statement contradicted by Iranian authorities [7]. Trump asserted, “After talking to many people, I am certain this news is accurate. The vast majority of Iranian decision-makers and leadership have died, and the overall war situation is nearly perfect.” [7]
On August 9, Mohsen Rezaei was appointed as Mojtaba Khamenei’s representative on the Supreme National Security Council, signaling continuity in Iran’s leadership structure [7]. The ongoing release of footage and official statements aim to provide further evidence of Mojtaba Khamenei’s role amid persistent external doubts.
