Mojtaba Khamenei Possibly Wounded After Operation Epic Fury
Questions about Mojtaba Khamenei emerged after reports linked him to injuries during a recent airstrike. The strike reportedly occurred during Operation Epic Fury on Feb. 28.
According to reports citing Iranian sources, the airstrike killed his father, Ali Khamenei, and his father’s wife. Mojtaba Khamenei became Iran’s new supreme leader earlier this week following his father’s death.
President Trump addressed the situation during an interview. He spoke with Brian Kilmeade on the radio program The Brian Kilmeade Show.
Trump said he believes Mojtaba Khamenei survived the strike. However, he suggested the cleric may have suffered injuries.
“I think he probably is. I think he’s damaged, but I think he’s probably alive in some form,” Trump said.
Conflicting Reports About Mojtaba Khamenei’s Injuries
Reports about Mojtaba Khamenei have varied widely since the airstrike. Iranian authorities have not released new images of him.
Additionally, he has not appeared publicly since being appointed supreme leader. This absence has increased speculation about his condition.
One report citing a British tabloid claimed Mojtaba Khamenei may have been severely injured. The source alleged he could be in a coma and may have lost both legs.
The same report also claimed he suffered serious internal injuries. However, these claims have not been independently confirmed.
Another source offered a different account of the incident. That report suggested the cleric suffered only minor injuries.
The injuries allegedly included a fractured foot, a bruised eye, and facial lacerations. However, officials have not verified these claims.
Mojtaba Khamenei Issues Statement as Iran’s New Leader
Despite questions about his health, Mojtaba Khamenei issued a public statement after becoming supreme leader. The message was broadcast on Iranian state television.
During the broadcast, an anchor read the statement aloud. Meanwhile, an image of Khamenei appeared on the screen.
In the message, he vowed to avenge the death of his father. Additionally, he pledged retaliation for “every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy.”
He also announced plans regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The statement said the strategic waterway would remain closed until the war ends.
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a major route for global oil shipments. Therefore, disruptions in the region can affect international energy markets.
U.S. Response and Energy Supply Considerations
Meanwhile, U.S. officials are considering responses to the developments involving Mojtaba Khamenei and the Strait of Hormuz.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, discussed possible actions during remarks to Fox News.
She said the White House is considering a temporary waiver of the Jones Act. The proposal would help maintain energy supplies reaching U.S. ports.
Leavitt explained that the measure would ensure vital energy products continue flowing. However, she said the action has not been finalized.
Military Developments and Security Concerns
During his interview, Trump also discussed the broader conflict with Iran. He said U.S. forces had targeted missiles, drones, and manufacturing sites.
Trump said the military campaign has caused extensive damage to Iranian capabilities. He stated the U.S. had destroyed numerous missile and drone facilities.
Additionally, Trump raised concerns about security inside the United States. He said authorities are monitoring possible terrorist sleeper cells.
Trump linked those concerns to immigration policies during the previous administration. However, he emphasized that officials are tracking potential threats.
