'Interaction' with Iran's injured Supreme Leader increasing daily, president says

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has indicated that the level of "interaction" with the nation's Supreme Leader is growing daily, amidst ongoing speculation about the leader's health. Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father Ali Khamenei after the latter's death in an airstrike at the start of the Iran war, has not appeared in public for months.

Pezeshkian's remarks, made in a video clip published by state media, suggested that increased interaction with the Supreme Leader is necessary for resolving the country's problems. "The interaction level with our dear Supreme Leader is increasing day by day and should increase so that we can solve our problems with his guidance," the president stated.

Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly sustained severe facial and leg injuries in a February 28 attack. While he has issued written statements since being appointed Iran's third supreme leader on March 8, there have been no new images or voice recordings. Sources close to his inner circle confirmed the injuries to Reuters in April. Senior sources told Reuters in July that the lack of visual or audio updates is attributed to health and security concerns, particularly given the assassination of his father.

The Revolutionary Guards, who backed Khamenei's elevation, have seen their influence grow, especially after the war. This increasing dominance signals a potential shift towards a more aggressive foreign policy and stricter domestic repression, according to sources familiar with Iran's policy-making circles.

“

The interaction level with our dear Supreme Leader is increasing day by day and should increase so that we can solve our problems with his guidance.