US President Donald Trump stated that it is unclear if Mojtaba Jameneí, recently named Iran's Supreme Leader after his father Ali Jameneí's death in bombings, is alive, citing a lack of contact or public appearances. Trump also noted uncertainty over who is leading Iran following military attacks by the US and Israel.
Key points
- Mojtaba Jameneí has not made any public appearances since his designation as Supreme Leader.
- Trump mentioned unconfirmed reports suggesting Jameneí was severely wounded, possibly disfigured or lost a leg.
- The US President suggested that the recent bombings eliminated a large part of Tehran's power structure.
- Iran's attributed first statement as Supreme Leader was a written communiqué promising retaliation and closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Why it matters
The uncertainty surrounding the health and whereabouts of Iran's new Supreme Leader complicates any potential diplomatic dialogue with the United States.
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