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Is Mojtaba Khamenei alive? Marco Rubio provides big update, says Iran’s Supreme Leader is…

News24 2026 03 14T223710.910

Washington: Amid ongoing efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire with Iran, the United States has made a fresh claim about Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. The latest statement differs from earlier reports that suggested Khamenei had either been killed or seriously injured during military strikes earlier this year.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that Khamenei is alive and continues to play an active role in Iran’s decision-making process, despite not appearing in public for several months.

Speaking before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio said available intelligence and other indications suggest that Khamenei remains involved in important administrative and strategic decisions from behind the scenes. He added that Khamenei’s influence within the Iranian leadership may have increased in recent months.

Away From Public View Since Attacks

According to US officials, Khamenei was reportedly injured during military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on February 28. Since then, he has not made any public appearances, leading to speculation about his health and whereabouts.

However, US officials now believe that he is operating from a secure location and continues to oversee government affairs through encrypted communication systems and a trusted network of advisers.

US Still Sees Possibility Of Agreement

Rubio’s remarks come at a time when diplomatic efforts aimed at making the Iran-US ceasefire permanent are continuing. However, no breakthrough has been achieved so far.

The US Secretary of State said Washington still believes a future agreement with Tehran is possible. According to Rubio, the situation could move in a positive direction if Iran takes certain key steps.

One of the main demands of the United States is the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes. Washington is seeking assurances that international vessels will be able to pass through the waterway freely, without restrictions, attacks or additional charges.

Conditions Set By Washington

Rubio also said that Iran must cooperate in removing naval mines reportedly placed in the Strait of Hormuz and ensure the safety of international shipping.

In addition, the United States wants Iran to accept long-term restrictions on its nuclear programme or completely stop uranium enrichment activities.

According to Rubio, many of the sanctions imposed on Iran are linked to its nuclear programme and uranium enrichment efforts. He said sanctions relief could become possible if Tehran agrees to reduce or end those activities significantly.

Trump Also Expressed Optimism

Earlier, US President Donald Trump indicated that an agreement on the ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could be reached in the near future.

However, Iran has currently suspended negotiations being conducted through international mediators. Tehran has stated that further talks would be meaningless unless Israel ends its military operations in Lebanon.

Growing Tensions Over Israel

Reports have also suggested differences between Washington and Israel over the handling of regional conflicts. While the US administration is working to reduce tensions and maintain a durable ceasefire, Israel has indicated that it intends to continue military operations in Lebanon.

Against this backdrop, Rubio’s statement regarding Khamenei’s continued involvement in Iranian affairs has added a new dimension to ongoing diplomatic efforts and political developments in the Middle East. The claim is likely to attract further attention as discussions over regional stability and future negotiations continue.

Read Also: Where is Mojtaba Khamenei? Russian envoy provides BIG update, says Iran’s Supreme leader is in…

First published on: Jun 03, 2026 07:46 AM IST



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