Iran's supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's condition critical; rushed to hospital

Reports in Israeli media have claimed that Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is in critical condition and has been rushed to a hospital, fuelling fresh speculation over his health and the stability of Iran's leadership. According to Israel's Channel 14 (C14), citing sources inside Iran, rumours that Khamenei is in an "extremely critical condition" are circulating at the highest levels of the Iranian establishment.

Reports claim condition critical

The Jerusalem Post had earlier reported similar claims, citing IranWire and sources said to be close to President Masoud Pezeshkian's administration. One source cited by the Jerusalem Post claimed, "We would not be surprised if we heard news of his martyrdom soon." There has, however, been no official confirmation from Iranian authorities regarding Khamenei's reported hospitalisation or his current medical condition.

Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the position of Supreme Leader shortly after his father was killed in joint US-Israeli military strikes on February 28, 2026. Since taking office, Khamenei has not made any public appearances and has communicated exclusively through written statements, adding to speculation about his health and whereabouts. Reports have indicated that he was injured and potentially disfigured in the initial strikes that targeted his father's compound. The injuries reportedly forced him into hiding and compelled him to communicate with senior regime figures through a slow network of intermediaries to reduce the risk of being targeted.

Pezeshkian admits communication difficult

Adding to speculation surrounding Khamenei's status, President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged during a state television interview that direct interaction with the Supreme Leader was currently "very difficult." International and regional reports have repeatedly raised questions about Khamenei's physical location and his ability to exercise the responsibilities of the country's highest political and religious office.

Claims Khamenei left Iran

In July, Saudi news outlet al-Hadath, citing an Israeli security source, claimed that Khamenei was "not in Iran." Around the same time, US President Donald Trump asserted in a Fox News interview that Iran's top military leadership had been eliminated during the military campaign. Trump claimed that Khamenei was "90% gone" and incapacitated following the strikes.