Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei narrowly avoided death during a targeted U.S.–Israeli airstrike on February 28 that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and other senior figures, according to multiple international reports. The strike hit the Iranian leadership’s compound in the capital in one of the most dramatic moments of the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Leaked audio shared with international media outlets suggests that Mojtaba Khamenei survived because he briefly stepped outside into the garden of his residence just moments before the missiles struck, sparing him by mere seconds from the blast’s full force. The account, widely reported on Monday, paints the incident as a narrow escape amid chaotic scenes at the compound.

The assault, carried out by U.S. and Israeli forces, was described by analysts as a high‑precision operation targeting Iran’s top leadership. It killed Ali Khamenei and several close family members, and severely damaged the complex. Iranian state media later confirmed the death of the former supreme leader and declared national mourning, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict.

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Despite reports of his survival, the exact status and condition of Mojtaba Khamenei remain unclear. U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, have publicly expressed uncertainty about whether the Iranian leader is alive or seriously wounded, citing conflicting intelligence and lack of verified appearances.

Iranian sources have offered limited information, with some describing Mojtaba as active and continuing to lead despite injuries, though no recent verified images or public appearances have been released. The lack of clear confirmation has fueled speculation about both his health and whereabouts, even as Tehran’s government asserts continuity of command.

The incident underscores the high stakes of the regional confrontation and the risks faced by top leadership figures. Mojtaba Khamenei’s reported escape by seconds has drawn global attention and added complexity to diplomatic and military dynamics, as world powers assess the implications of leadership survival amid intense conflict.

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