Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Reportedly in Coma Amid Rising Tensions with Israel
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s 85-year-old Supreme Leader, is reportedly in a coma, raising concerns about his health and potential succession. Khamenei’s declining condition has led to speculation regarding his abdication, with reports suggesting he discreetly chose his successor, likely his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, during a secret meeting with the Assembly of Experts. Mojtaba has been gaining influence within the Iranian regime, particularly in decision-making roles.
As tensions escalate between Iran and Israel, Khamenei has threatened a “teeth-breaking” response to recent Israeli airstrikes that targeted Iranian military sites and a “crushing response” to further attacks. These threats followed a series of military confrontations exacerbated by Israel’s actions against Iran and its allies in the region. Khamenei’s promises of retaliation coincide with heightened military readiness on both sides, with the US sending additional forces to the Middle East in support of Israel.
The Iranian leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, affirmed their intention to respond “appropriately” to Israel’s aggression without seeking outright war. Iran’s position is further complicated by internal dissent, economic difficulties exacerbated by sanctions, and ongoing protests against the regime’s strict enforcement of Islamic laws.
In light of these developments, analysts indicate that the critical period surrounding Khamenei’s health could shape the geopolitical landscape of the region, particularly regarding Iran’s military posture and leadership transition. Khamenei’s authority plays a pivotal role in Iran’s foreign policy, impacting relationships with regional adversaries and allies alike. The situation remains fluid as Iran balances its responses amidst calls for diplomatic resolutions and the looming spectre of wider military conflict.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is in a Coma - Sarajevo Times
The 85-year-old Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is in a coma and his health is extremely serious, which is why there is speculation ab
sarajevotimes.comIran's Khamenei seriously ill, son likely to be successor as supreme leader - NYT
Khamenei has served as Supreme Leader since 1989 since the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, the first to hold the title.
www.jpost.comIran's supreme leader threatens Israel and US with 'a crushing response' over Israeli attack
Any further attacks from either side could engulf the wider Middle East, already teetering over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip and Israel’s gr
apnews.com
Iran’s supreme leader vows ‘teeth-breaking response’ to Israel and US | CNN
The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have reached a critical point following recent military confrontations, prompting a stern warning from
www.cnn.com
Elon Musk's X suspends new account of Iran's Supreme Leader after it posts in Hebrew
The X account opened Sunday with a message in Hebrew reading: “In the name of God, the most merciful,” a standard Islamic greeting.
fortune.com
Iran says it will respond ‘appropriately’ to Israeli strikes but does not seek war
It is unclear whether Iran is mulling direct military response as foreign minister calls for UN security council meeting
www.theguardian.com
American journalist detained in Iran as Supreme Leader Khamenei threatens US, Israel, State Department says
An Iranian-American journalist has been detained in Iran, as the U.S. ordered more bombers and warships to the Middle East amid rising tensions.
www.foxnews.com
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: Who is Iran's supreme leader and how powerful is he?
He is one of the most consequential figures in the ongoing crisis in the Middle East but who exactly is the 85-year-old supreme leader?
news.sky.com
Iran's enemies will receive crushing response - Khamenei
The threat comes a week after Israel attacked Iran, raising fears that retaliation will escalate to war.
www.bbc.com