Mojtaba Khamenei was at his father's compound in Tehran on 28/2 when the US and Israel launched an attack. Intelligence from both nations had information regarding a meeting chaired by Ali Khamenei, allowing Israeli fighter jets to target the building with Blue Sparrow ballistic missiles.

The airstrike killed Ali Khamenei and many relatives and high-ranking Iranian officials inside the building.

"Mojtaba was also a target, but he had left the premises briefly just before the Israeli missiles struck at 9:32 am", the Telegraph reported, citing a recorded statement by Mazaher Hosseini, chief of ceremonies at the Supreme Leader's office. Hosseini delivered this statement to clerics and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders in Tehran on 12/3.

"Mojtaba's wife was martyred instantly", Hosseini stated. He added that Mojtaba "sustained only minor leg injuries".

Satellite image reportedly showing the destroyed residence of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Tehran. Photo: Airbus

According to Hosseini, Israeli fighter jets simultaneously attacked multiple locations within the compound, aiming to eliminate the entire Khamenei family.

"One of the targets was the Supreme Leader's residence, where three missiles were launched", Hosseini explained. Mojtaba's residence and that of Mostafa Khamenei, Ali Khamenei's eldest son, were also hit. "Thank God, only some dust and debris fell; Mostafa's house remained safe, and no one was injured", he added.

Hosseini also noted the death of Mohammad Shirazi, the Supreme Leader's military advisor. Shirazi was a crucial link between the supreme leader and the Iranian military, and he also perished in the airstrike.

"Shirazi possessed information on every military personnel. The enemy knew Shirazi was slated to succeed those who died, so they targeted him. When new commanders are appointed, they will have a chance to infiltrate and cause disruption", Hosseini stated, noting that Shirazi's body was not found intact.

Late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei (left) and new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Photo: AFP

Mojtaba, 56, was elected Supreme Leader by Iran's Assembly of Experts on 8/3, succeeding his father. He holds influence in Iran and maintains close ties with the IRGC and the Basij volunteer militia.

Iranian state television referred to Mojtaba as a "jaanbaz" (a term for a war veteran or one who has sacrificed for the country), suggesting he was injured in the attack, though his exact health condition was not detailed. Alireza Salarian, Iran's ambassador to Cyprus, informed the Guardian that Mojtaba sustained wounds to his leg, arm, and hand during the US-Israeli airstrike.

Mojtaba has not made a public appearance in recent days. In a message released on 12/3, Iran's new Supreme Leader affirmed that the country would maintain its blockade of the Hormuz Strait "if the conflict continues and we deem it appropriate."

US President Donald Trump stated on 16/3 that he was unsure if Iran's new Supreme Leader was alive. Washington also expressed uncertainty about who was in charge in Tehran for potential negotiations.

Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Telegraph)