Mojtaba Khamenei on Friday highlighted what he described as strong national unity in Iran, linking it to a weakening of adversaries during the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
'Fracture in the enemy' claim
In a message to the nation, he said, "Due to the strange unity created among compatriots, a fracture has occurred in the enemy," presenting internal cohesion as a strategic advantage for Tehran, reported Hindustan Times.
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He further emphasised the importance of maintaining this unity, stating, "With the practical gratitude for this blessing, cohesion has become even greater and more steel-like, and the enemies will become more wretched and diminished."
Khamenei also warned against what he described as efforts to weaken Iran from within. "The enemy's media operations, by targeting the minds and psyches of the people, intend to undermine national unity and security; may our negligence not allow this sinister intent to come to fruition," he said.
Leadership rejects division claims
Separately, Iran's Parliament speaker Masoud Pezeshkian dismissed reports of internal divisions within the country's leadership. He rejected claims of a split between "hardliners" and "moderates", asserting that Iranians remain united as "revolutionaries" and aligned with the Supreme Leader.
His remarks were in response to statements by Donald Trump, who had alleged infighting within Iran's political and military structure.
The statements come at a time of heightened tensions, with both sides exchanging sharp rhetoric alongside developments on the ground.
Mojtaba Khamenei's medical condition
Meanwhile, a report by The New York Times indicates Mojtaba Khamenei sustained multiple serious injuries in the strike and operational control has largely shifted to senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC).
According to the report, one of his legs has undergone three surgeries and could be replaced with a prosthetic. He also had surgery on one of his hands and is still working to regain its function.
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The report further noted severe burns to his face and lips, which have made speaking difficult. It added that he may eventually require plastic surgery as part of his recovery.
Despite these injuries, the report states that he remains mentally alert and continues to be involved in key decisions.
