Russia breaks silence: Mojtaba is in Iran, just hiding away
What's the story
Mojtaba Khamenei, the newly appointed Supreme Leader of Iran, has not been seen in public since his appointment. His absence has sparked rumors about his health and whereabouts. However, Russian ambassador to Iran Alexey Dedov confirmed to news outlet RTVI that Khamenei is in Iran but avoiding public appearances "for understandable reasons." This comes after reports suggested he was flown to Moscow for treatment on Russian President Vladimir Putin's invitation.
Succession details
US believes Khamenei is wounded, likely disfigured
Khamenei succeeded his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28. The United States believes the new Supreme Leader himself is wounded and likely disfigured. Despite his absence, thousands have pledged allegiance to the Islamic regime, and Iran has retaliated against US and Israeli aggression with counterstrikes across the Gulf.
Leadership questions
Questions arise about Iran's power dynamics
The absence of the new Supreme Leader has raised questions about who is really in control of Iran. For nearly four decades, Khamenei operated behind the scenes during his father's rule. His continued invisibility highlights a shift in power dynamics within the Islamic Republic, where institutions may matter more than individuals at the top, according to CNN.
Social media buzz
AI-generated videos of Khamenei go viral
Amid the mystery surrounding Khamenei's whereabouts, doctored images and AI-generated videos of him have gone viral on social media. These images show him as a cardboard cutout sitting in a seat of power. The videos feature an AI-generated version of the new leader delivering speeches and standing beside his father at key moments, scenes that never actually occurred.