Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is said to be in a coma after being seriously wounded in an air strike that reportedly killed his father, according to a report by British tabloid The Sun.
The report claims the 56-year-old son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei lost at least one leg and suffered significant internal injuries. These claims, however, have not been independently confirmed.
Severe injuries reported after air strike
According to The Sun, Mojtaba Khamenei was critically wounded during an air strike linked to the conflict that reportedly killed his father on February 28. The report cited unnamed sources in Tehran who said the new leader suffered extensive injuries, including the loss of one leg and possible damage to his liver or stomach.
One source quoted by the newspaper described his condition as “very serious”, claiming that the leader had undergone amputations and remained in a coma while receiving intensive medical care.
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"One or two of his legs have been cut off. His liver or stomach has also ruptured. He is apparently in a coma as well”, The Sun cited the source as saying.
Tight security around hospital treatment
The Sun reported that Mojtaba Khamenei is being treated at Sina University Hospital in Tehran under heavy security. According to the report, the hospital unit where he is receiving treatment has been sealed off while doctors continue intensive care procedures.
The newspaper also claimed that Iran’s health minister, Mohammad Reza Zafarghandi, who is described as an experienced trauma surgeon, is personally overseeing the treatment.
Leadership questions amid ongoing conflict
The report said Mojtaba Khamenei is not currently directing Iran’s military strategy, which has been linked to ongoing tensions affecting global energy markets.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his condition, Iranian state television reportedly broadcast what it described as Khamenei’s first statement after assuming leadership. The message was read by a news anchor rather than the leader himself.
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According to the report, the statement warned that Iran would avenge the deaths of its citizens and continue attacks targeting regional shipping routes, including threats involving the Strait of Hormuz.
An Iranian analyst quoted by the newspaper suggested that the country’s military structure could continue operating even without direct leadership, as existing systems remain in place.
The analyst said, “His father left behind a system which has kicked into gear which can be run by a ghost.” “That is why Iran’s missiles and drones are still flying and it’s why the war will go on.”
The Sun noted that the claims could not be independently confirmed because of internet restrictions inside Iran and the tight security surrounding the leader’s reported treatment.
