Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has remained out of public view, prompting questions about his health, security and ability to lead the country amid the ongoing conflict. An Iranian diplomatic representative has offered an explanation for his absence, linking it to the security risks surrounding the country's leadership during a period of heightened regional tensions. However, claims about his condition and the precise reasons for his continued absence from public appearances remain difficult to verify independently.

Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2026, Iranian diplomat Abdul Majid Hakeem Elahi said Khamenei was in good health and continuing to work normally despite his absence from the media. When asked why the leader had not been seen publicly, Elahi attributed the situation to security precautions. He said the authorities had avoided exposing Khamenei to public attention because of the risks associated with the ongoing conflict.

Elahi also said Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had told him about a seven-hour meeting with Khamenei the previous week. According to the diplomat, Iran's parliamentary speaker had also met the Supreme Leader and was expected to visit India shortly. These claims were presented as evidence that Khamenei continued to engage with senior officials, even though his activities remained largely out of public view.

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Addressing reports about Khamenei's whereabouts, Elahi said the Supreme Leader had attended his father's funeral and occasionally joined demonstrations on the streets at night. These remarks differed from reports that Khamenei had not made any verified public appearance since assuming leadership in March. The conflicting accounts have added to uncertainty surrounding his public absence, although Iranian officials have continued to insist that security concerns are the primary reason for keeping him out of sight.

Khamenei reportedly sustained injuries in the February 28 US-Israeli strike that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Since taking over as Supreme Leader, he has largely communicated through written statements attributed to him. His prolonged absence has prompted international speculation about his health and the extent of his involvement in governing Iran. Iranian officials, however, maintain that he remains in charge and continues to make decisions despite the extraordinary security situation.

Elahi also criticised the United States and Israel over the war, arguing that their objectives had not been achieved. He alleged that Washington had sought regime change, the division of Iran into smaller territories and control over its oil resources. The diplomat further highlighted damage to schools, universities and factories during the conflict and questioned the overall outcome of the military campaign. His remarks reflected Tehran's position as tensions continue across the region.

The Iranian representative also emphasised the longstanding relationship between India and Iran, describing the two countries as closely connected. He said India could play an important diplomatic role in promoting peace in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, particularly through its engagement with international groupings such as BRICS. His comments came as questions surrounding Khamenei's public absence continued to attract attention amid the broader conflict and uncertainty over the region's political future.

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