Trump: Iran’s new supreme leader alive but ‘damaged’

Former United States President Donald Trump has said he believes Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is still alive but has been left “damaged” following recent military strikes during the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.

Trump made the remark while commenting on the aftermath of attacks that reportedly killed Iran’s former supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and triggered a leadership transition in the country. He suggested that although Mojtaba survived the strikes, his condition and ability to lead effectively may have been affected.

Mojtaba Khamenei was elevated to the position of supreme leader after the death of his father earlier in 2026, following a period of political uncertainty and escalating regional tensions. Reports indicate that his appointment was backed by influential factions within Iran’s political and security establishment.

Since assuming office, the new leader has largely stayed out of the public eye, fuelling speculation about his health and the internal stability of Iran’s leadership structure. Analysts say the succession marked a significant turning point in Iran’s governance and could shape the country’s strategic posture amid continuing hostilities.

Trump has previously criticised Iran’s leadership choices, describing Mojtaba as an unsuitable figure for the role and warning that his emergence could intensify geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The situation remains fluid, with international observers closely monitoring developments within Iran’s political system as well as the broader implications for regional security.