Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Survives Assassination Attempt
Recent reports indicate that Iran’s recent Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, narrowly survived an assassination attempt. Leaked audio, obtained by The Telegraph, details the events surrounding a U.S. And Israeli air strike on February 28, 2026, that targeted his residence.
Details of the Attack
The leaked audio, reportedly from Mazaher Hosseini, head of protocol for the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describes a coordinated attack on the compound where Ali Khamenei and his son Mojtaba resided. At least three rockets struck the complex, which likewise housed other senior officials and family members.
According to Hosseini, Mojtaba Khamenei was outside, walking in the garden, moments before the strike. He was ascending stairs when the building was hit, sustaining a leg injury. Tragically, Mojtaba Khamenei’s wife was killed instantly, as was a cousin. Mohammad Shirazi, chief of Khamenei’s military bureau, was also reportedly killed in the attack, described as being “blown to pieces.”
Death of Ali Khamenei and Other Officials
The February 28th airstrike resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, IRGC chief Mohammad Pakpour, and Iran’s defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh .
Succession and Current Status
Mojtaba Khamenei officially succeeded his father as Supreme Leader of Iran on June 4, 1989, a position he held until February 28, 2026 . He has since issued statements vowing to avenge the deaths of those killed in the strikes, though these statements were read by a presenter on state TV rather than delivered directly by Khamenei .
U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly questioned whether Mojtaba Khamenei is still alive, suggesting reports of his condition are unclear .
Ali Khamenei’s Previous Roles
Prior to becoming Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei served as the 3rd President of Iran from October 9, 1981, to August 16, 1989 . He also held positions as the 1st Chairman of the Expediency Discernment Council and a Member of the Assembly of Experts .