Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Marks Eid Al-Fitr Amidst Ongoing Conflicts
Tehran – Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei extended greetings for Eid Al-Fitr to Muslims worldwide, as the Islamic Republic continues to navigate ongoing conflicts with the United States and Israel. The remarks, shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, March 21, 2026, highlighted the convergence of spiritual and natural renewal with the observance of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Khamenei congratulated all Iranian citizens on these religious and national holidays, expressing condolences and sympathy to families affected by the recent conflicts. He specifically acknowledged the losses resulting from the war with Israel, a reported coup attempt, the ongoing conflict with the US-Israel alliance, and casualties among security and border personnel.
Recent Conflicts and Losses
According to Khamenei, Iran has experienced three significant military and security challenges in the past year. He cited the “June war,” in which approximately 1,000 Iranian citizens were reportedly killed due to a strike by Israel, with assistance from the United States, during ongoing negotiations. He stated that the Iranian people have inflicted significant setbacks on their adversaries, leading to “contradictory words and nonsense” from the enemy.
The latest statement from Khamenei was delivered via Iranian television on Friday, March 20, 2026, without a visual or audio recording of the Supreme Leader himself. This follows a pattern of written statements issued since his appointment following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in an Israeli air strike.
Emphasis on National Unity
Khamenei underscored the importance of national unity as a source of strength in confronting the United States and Israel. He asserted that the unity among Iranians, despite their diverse religious, intellectual, cultural, and political backgrounds, has been instrumental in defeating the enemy.
Questions Regarding Khamenei’s Health and Visibility
Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen in public since succeeding his father. Concerns about his health and whereabouts have been raised, with US President Donald Trump recently stating that American officials are uncertain whether the Iranian leader is still alive [The Times of Israel]. Reports suggest Khamenei may have been injured in the same strike that killed his father [Times Now News].
Iran has released an undated video purportedly showing Khamenei teaching religious science to students in an attempt to dispel rumors about his health [Times Now News]. The date of the video remains unknown.