Iran releases first video of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei amid speculations about his deteriorating health condition

On a day that saw Israeli media speculating about Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's critical health condition, Tehran's semi-official Mehr news agency released an undated video of the leader. The video's release aimed to allay concerns over Khamenei's health and whereabouts, as he has not made any public appearances since taking up the role after his father's death in February.

Khamenei was notably absent from his father's funeral and now communicates exclusively through written statements. Reports suggest he may have been injured during the initial strikes targeting his compound, leading him to communicate through intermediaries. The speculation over his health intensified after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged difficulties in direct communication with the Supreme Leader.

While Iranian officials have downplayed the severity of Khamenei's injuries, his absence from public appearances has fueled uncertainty about his health and leadership.