Iranian president holds rare meeting with supreme leader

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a rare meeting with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Sunday, according to a statement from Khamenei's office. The meeting took place at the beginning of Pezeshkian's third year as president, though the exact date was not specified. Pezeshkian, who assumed office in July 2024, previously mentioned a meeting with Khamenei in early May, but no details or official confirmation were provided at the time.

The president's office disclosed that the two discussed Iran's current military situation and future prospects. Speculation has arisen regarding Khamenei's health following reports that he sustained injuries in strikes that claimed his father's life. Khamenei's office acknowledged the meeting and emphasized that discussions encompassed the country's challenges and future trajectory.

Tensions persisted between Iran and the United States and Israel, with ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict. However, a preliminary agreement collapsed, and Iran's chief negotiator stated that future interactions will primarily involve mediated communication. According to Tasnim news agency, a Revolutionary Guards general indicated that visual evidence of Khamenei participating in public gatherings and meetings would be released at a later date, though no specific timeline was provided.