Iran president says communication with Khamenei increasing amid health rumors

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has asserted that communication with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is intensifying, suggesting that national directives are increasingly flowing from the highest authority. This statement comes amid ongoing speculation about Khamenei's health and his capacity to govern, with Raisi highlighting that the government resolves issues under Khamenei's guidance.

Raisi stated that contact with the Supreme Leader is growing daily and that communication should expand to facilitate problem-solving. He stressed that the administration operates according to Khamenei's directives, though he provided no specifics on their communication channels or Khamenei's current health status. The semi-official Tasnim news agency corroborated Raisi's claims, reporting that the president noted increased opportunities to connect with Khamenei and that government measures align with his guidance.

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Communication with the Supreme Leader is increasing day by day, and we must expand contact to resolve issues through his guidance.

This public affirmation follows Raisi's earlier disclosure of a direct meeting with Khamenei lasting about two and a half hours in May. However, as with previous instances, the exact date, location, and discussion topics were not revealed. Khamenei was reportedly injured in February during an alleged US and Israeli airstrike that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader. Despite being elected as Iran's third Supreme Leader in early March, no new photos, videos, or audio recordings of him have been released. His messages have been limited to written statements, fueling persistent questions about his health and ruling capabilities.

Khamenei's absence from his father's recent funeral ceremonies, where other high-ranking officials were present, has further fueled these concerns. Some analyses suggest he may be in hiding due to his injuries or security concerns, especially given past incidents where Israeli forces reportedly targeted high-profile Iranian figures. Raisi's statements appear designed to underscore Khamenei's ongoing influence, even in his absence from public view. However, without official confirmation of his recent appearance or voice, the controversy surrounding his health and actual governing power is likely to persist.

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The government is resolving issues according to the Supreme Leader's guidance.