Mojtaba Khamenei's Strategy to Control the War from Hiding

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, TEHERAN — Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has remained absent from the public eye since assuming leadership following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Reports cited by The New York Times indicate that security conditions and health recovery are the primary reasons behind the Supreme Leader’s absence.

As is known, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died in a joint attack by the United States (US) and Israel on 28 February. Since then, his instructions and directives have so far been conveyed only through social media posts or read out by presenters on state television.

Nevertheless, Mojtaba Khamenei reappeared in public through an Iranian state television broadcast on Thursday (19/3/2026) local time. Mojtaba’s appearance also serves as a decisive rebuttal to rumours of his death or severe injury previously spread by US parties.

In the video clip broadcast, Mojtaba Khamenei appears healthy while delivering a sermon to a group of youths. His presence on the screen ends speculation triggered by statements from several high-ranking Washington officials.

However, Mojtaba has not yet given a direct statement. An Iranian official revealed that Mojtaba is acting very cautiously. He is said not to want to appear vulnerable or sound weak in his first public speech amid a crucial national situation.