NEW DELHI – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly refuted widespread speculation about the health and location of Mojtaba Khamenei, stating that the Supreme Leader's son is "alive and doing his job." Pezeshkian made these remarks during an interview in New Delhi, where he is attending a three-day BRICS summit.
Addressing persistent rumors, the Iranian President directly accused the United States of orchestrating a disinformation campaign. "The US has targeted most of our leaders. Mojtaba is alive, doing his job. America is not able to locate Mojtaba. That is why they are spreading propaganda," Pezeshkian told India Today.
Context of Heightened Tensions
Pezeshkian's statements come amidst a period of extreme tension in West Asia. Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly assumed the role of Supreme Leader following joint US-Israeli strikes in February that resulted in the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and other immediate family members. Since then, Mojtaba has maintained a low public profile, fueling various rumors, including claims he was severely injured or in a coma.
US defense secretary Pete Hegseth had previously suggested Mojtaba was disfigured, and US intelligence officials have indicated he is likely in a secret shelter with limited external access. However, Pezeshkian's remarks directly contradict these assertions, portraying them as deliberate falsehoods.
BRICS Summit and Bilateral Engagements
President Pezeshkian's visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit also included significant bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their talks primarily focused on the volatile situation in West Asia and strengthening India-Iran relations. Pezeshkian urged the BRICS bloc to safeguard the "legitimate trade" of member countries from external disruption and advocated for increased use of national currencies in intra-bloc commerce.
In a broader address, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran's steadfast opposition to what he termed "bullying" and "arrogance" from the US and Israel. "We will not surrender to oppression. Iran is standing up to Israel and the US because we will not be bullied, and if they push us, we will push them back," he declared. He condemned US and Israeli forces as "real militants," citing an alleged US strike near a primary school in southern Iran that he claimed killed 168 children.
Iran's Vision for Regional Stability
Outlining Tehran's vision for the Gulf region to a gathering of religious leaders and intellectuals, Pezeshkian emphasized Iran's commitment to peaceful coexistence while resisting foreign attempts to sow discord. He criticized the US and Israel for making "errors like someone riding a wild horse without reining it in," warning of dire consequences for their actions.
The Iranian President expressed confidence in future cooperation with India, stating his "nice talks" with PM Modi would pave the way for enhanced trade, technology, and cultural ties. He also highlighted Iran's readiness to serve as a strategic partner for energy and food supply in the region, leveraging its vast reserves and strategic geographical position.
This visit occurs at a critical juncture, with renewed US strikes, instability in the Strait of Hormuz, and strained relations between Iran and Gulf nations. The situation presents a diplomatic challenge for India as it seeks consensus for the BRICS joint declaration, particularly given that UAE and Saudi Arabia, both expanded BRICS members, have faced retaliatory strikes from Iran.