INTEL2026-03-09
The Hidden Leader: Mojtaba Wounded, Unseen, in Hiding
New supreme leader wounded — father and mother killed Feb 28 — IRGC holds power
Iranian state TV confirms Mojtaba Khamenei is janbaz — wounded by the enemy. He has not been seen publicly since his father and mother were killed in the February 28 airstrike. Named supreme leader overnight but operating from an undisclosed location while wounded. China defends him immediately. The IRGC and Qalibaf effectively hold governing power. Iran's new supreme leader is a wounded ghost.
Key facts
- •State TV: Mojtaba is janbaz — wounded by enemy in the Ramadan war
- •Has not appeared publicly since war began February 28
- •Father Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and mother killed in Feb 28 opening airstrike
- •Named supreme leader overnight while wounded and in undisclosed location
- •IRGC oath: complete obedience — effective governing power with IRGC and Qalibaf
- •China FM: opposes any targeting of Mojtaba — Iran sovereignty must be respected
Timeline
00:00 UTC
Feb 28 airstrike kills Ali Khamenei and wife — Mojtaba wounded
23:00 UTC
Assembly of Experts names Mojtaba supreme leader — IRGC oath issued
06:00 UTC
State TV confirms Mojtaba is janbaz — wounded not seen publicly
07:30 UTC
China FM: opposes targeting Mojtaba — Iran sovereignty must be respected