Pete Hegseth: Iran’s New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Wounded in Strikes

United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has claimed that Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was wounded during recent US-Israeli attacks on Iran.

Speaking during a press conference at the Pentagon, Hegseth said the Iranian leader was “likely injured and disfigured,” although he did not present any evidence to support the claim.

Iranian authorities have not confirmed the allegation, and there has been no official update regarding Khamenei’s condition.

Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed on February 28 during the first day of the United States and Israeli military assault on Iran.

On Thursday, the new Iranian leader released his first public statement since taking power. In the written message, which was broadcast on Iranian state television, Khamenei vowed that Iran would continue to resist foreign attacks and warned that all US military bases in the region could become targets unless they were closed.

He also pledged to maintain the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.

US President Donald Trump had earlier criticised the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, suggesting the new leader could face a similar fate to his father.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Health Ministry reported that at least 1,444 people have been killed and more than 18,000 injured since the start of the conflict following US-Israeli strikes.

While the United States and Israel say their attacks target Iranian leadership, military facilities and nuclear infrastructure, Iranian officials claim that many civilian locations, including schools and hospitals, have also been hit.

Analysts say the statements from US officials are aimed at reassuring the American public amid rising opposition to the war and increasing economic pressures linked to the conflict.