Mojtaba Khamenei rushed to hospital in critical condition, multiple sources confirm

Reports emerging Friday indicate a significant escalation in the health crisis surrounding Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. According to sources cited by the opposition outlet IranWire and subsequently circulated by Israeli media, the younger Khamenei has not held a single meeting with cabinet members since the February 28 strike on the leadership compound that killed his father, Ali Khamenei.

Rumors of Incapacity

Within the highest echelons of the Iranian regime, rumors have circulated for months that Mojtaba Khamenei is physically unable to govern. Sources close to the Pezeshkian administration have reportedly stated that they "would not be surprised" if news of his death were released shortly. This follows a period of near-total public silence from the leader; since his ascension, he has not addressed the nation or appeared in any verified public setting.

As The Zioneer reported earlier, prior analysis of official documents issued in his name revealed digital signatures linked to the office of Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, fueling theories that Mojtaba was either incapacitated or being sidelined by IRGC powerbrokers.

Context of the Injury

The current reports align with claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who remarked in June that the younger Khamenei was "severely wounded" during the events of late February. While the regime has attempted to project an image of stability—including a public pledge of allegiance by the Army Chief and IRGC commanders in July—the lack of physical evidence of Khamenei’s presence has led to a persistent leadership vacuum.

Strategic Implications

If Khamenei is indeed in critical condition or has succumbed to his injuries, Iran faces its second succession crisis in less than six months. This instability arrives at a sensitive juncture for the regime, which is currently managing a fragile diplomatic transition involving maritime transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz. A confirmed vacancy at the top of the Islamic Republic’s hierarchy could trigger an internal power struggle between competing IRGC factions, potentially altering Iran's regional posture and its coordination with proxy groups.