Hegseth: Iran’s New Leader Injured, in Hiding

Pete Hegseth says the United States believes Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly installed supreme leader, has been wounded during the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Speaking at a Pentagon press conference, Hegseth said the Iranian leader is believed to be “wounded and likely disfigured.” The defense secretary noted that Khamenei recently issued a written statement calling for unity, but did not appear on video or deliver a recorded message.

Khamenei took power after his father, former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, was killed in a bombing at the start of the war between the United States, Israel and Iran on February 28.

According to Hegseth, the lack of any public appearance raises questions about the new leader’s condition and ability to project authority. Iranian officials have confirmed Mojtaba Khamenei was wounded but have not provided further details about his injuries.

The comments come as the conflict continues to intensify across the region.