Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a written message thanking Iraq for its support during the ongoing conflict, but his continued absence from public view raises questions about his condition and whereabouts.
In his latest message, Khamenei expressed appreciation to Iraq for backing Iran, specifically acknowledging the Iraqi people and its top religious leadership.
However, Mojtaba Khamenei's absence has fuelled speculation about whether he is alive or not, with Donald Trump casting doubt on his condition in a recent interview.
The message was conveyed after a meeting involving the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq and Iran's ambassador in Baghdad, though details about how it was transmitted were not disclosed.
Despite being named supreme leader after the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public even once, with his communication limited to a handful of written statements.
The lack of any direct appearance has triggered intense speculation globally, with questions over whether he is able to lead in person remaining unanswered.
