Iranian officials insist supreme leader remains in control despite no public appearance, photograph, video or audio message for six months
TEHRAN: Six months after airstrikes triggered the war and propelled a badly wounded Mojtaba Khamenei into Iran’s top leadership role, the supreme leader remains unseen and unheard, fuelling growing questions over his condition and authority.
According to Reuters, Iranian officials and senior sources say Khamenei continues to make major decisions while recovering from severe facial injuries and remaining out of public view because of assassination fears.
However, no photograph, video or audio recording of Khamenei has appeared since his appointment. His communications have consisted mainly of written statements read by broadcasters.
President Masoud Pezeshkian said on August 10 that he held a seven-hour meeting with Khamenei, while officials told Reuters that only a limited circle maintains direct access to him.
Public Absence Raises Doubts Across Political Spectrum
Nevertheless, Khamenei’s prolonged invisibility has created unease even among supporters of the Islamic Republic.
A Basij member in Qom told Reuters that hearing or seeing the leader would strengthen public confidence. Meanwhile, reform-minded Iranians have questioned whether authorities have provided sufficient evidence about his condition.
The uncertainty comes as Iran faces critical decisions over the continuing war and a badly weakened economy.
IRGC Gains Influence as Leadership Structure Evolves
At the same time, Reuters reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has strengthened its influence within Iran’s reconfigured power structure.
Senior Guards commanders, Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf reportedly play central roles around the Supreme National Security Council.
Officials maintain that Khamenei receives major reports and retains final authority on strategic decisions.
However, analysts warn that his prolonged absence could allow competing factions to claim they understand his position.
Middle East Institute analyst Alex Vatanka said any major agreement with Washington, or decision to continue a costly conflict, would require Khamenei’s unmistakable approval.
Consequently, his continued invisibility risks becoming a political liability as Iran navigates war, economic pressure and internal uncertainty.
