Iranian state television broadcast the first public statement from Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, newly appointed supreme leader following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei. The message, delivered without a visual appearance by Mojtaba, pledged retaliation for Iranian casualties and threatened to cut off oil exports from the Gulf region. However, the absence of on-screen footage has sparked widespread speculation about the speaker's health and whether he personally authored the statement.
The speech comes amid ongoing tensions after attacks attributed to the US and Israel that killed the former supreme leader. Questions have emerged regarding Mojtaba’s current condition and his ability to lead, particularly given the lack of direct visual confirmation. While the content aligns with Iran’s hardline rhetoric, the method of delivery raises doubts about transparency and authenticity. Observers continue to monitor developments closely, seeking clarity on the new leadership’s role and intentions in the country’s evolving political landscape.