Key facts
- Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appeared in a new, undated video released by Mehr News agency.
- The video shows Khamenei interacting with followers and appearing to be in relatively good health.
- The release comes amid reports of his deteriorating health and injuries sustained in a February 28 attack.
- Khamenei has not been seen publicly since his appointment as supreme leader in March.
- Iranian officials have cited security concerns and injuries for his absence from public view.
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has appeared in a new, undated video released by the semi-official Mehr News agency, amid ongoing speculation about his health and whereabouts. The 12-second clip shows Khamenei interacting with followers, appearing to be in relatively good health.
The release of the footage follows reports, particularly in Israeli media, claiming that Khamenei's health had deteriorated significantly and that he was in critical condition following an attack on February 28 that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei, who succeeded his father as supreme leader in March, has not been seen publicly since his appointment.
Iranian officials, including Basij Organisation deputy Qasem Qoraishi, have stated that future footage of Khamenei will be released, showing him in public and meeting with military commanders. The Iranian judiciary's news outlet Mizan also published a report addressing speculation about his health. Explanations for Khamenei's absence from public view have included security concerns and injuries sustained in the attack, with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian noting that communication with the Supreme Leader is currently difficult.