حسین باستانی

Mojtaba Khamenei’s continued absence from public view has fueled speculation that he was seriously injured or otherwise unable to appear, despite official claims that security concerns prevent releasing his image or voice. The article argues that these explanations are unconvincing because authorities could have mitigated the alleged risks, and notes the circulation of fabricated or altered images. It suggests that, if Mojtaba remains physically impaired, an unidentified circle of trusted aides may be exercising substantial influence over his decisions and messages, creating an unprecedented level of concealed governance around Iran’s supreme leadership.

Alleged messages from Mojtaba Khamenei have intensified a power struggle inside Iran over negotiations with the United States and the handling of renewed conflict. A message expressing reservations about the Islamabad memorandum enabled hard-line opponents to attack President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other members of the Supreme National Security Council, despite 12 of its 13 members reportedly approving the agreement. Subsequent revenge-focused messages after Ali Khamenei’s death fueled threats against US officials and pressure for continued confrontation, while state rallies and media campaigns targeted Iranian negotiators. A later call for unity has not resolved the divide between officials favoring pragmatic decision-making and hard-line figures demanding confrontation. The episode has weakened confidence in the Supreme National Security Council as a venue for consensus and raised questions about the source, authority and durability of messages attributed to Mojtaba Khamenei.