Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei waving to a crowd of students in Tehran on November 2, 2024. Unverified reports that he is in a coma and is seriously ill have circulated online. Uncredited, Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/Associated Press
Reports about Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei being in a coma or dead erupted across social media on November 16. These claims suggested the 85-year-old leader’s health had deteriorated, leading to intense speculation about his successor. However, on Sunday, November 17, Khamenei’s official account on X, formerly known as Twitter, shared a photo purportedly showing him meeting Mojtaba Amani, Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon, in Tehran at noon.
The timing of the photo’s release appears to be a direct response to rumors circulating online. Several tweets had claimed that Khamenei was critically ill or had passed away. One user, Dr. Maalouf, declared on November 16, “BREAKING – The supreme leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly fallen into a coma and DIED. Good riddance!” Others echoed similar sentiments, with some hinting at a possible dynastic transition of power within Iran’s theocratic regime.
Among the names discussed as potential successors is Khamenei’s second son, Mojtaba Khamenei, a figure who has reportedly been involved in government affairs for decades. Speculation was fueled by a report from Iran International on November 15, which detailed discussions by the Assembly of Experts about leadership candidates. However, the discussions reportedly stemmed from concerns about assassination risks rather than Khamenei’s health.
The Supreme Leader’s office has not directly addressed the rumors but has relied on the photo’s timing to counter the claims. If the image is verified, it would discredit the swirling speculation about Khamenei’s condition. The photo shows him appearing healthy and engaged, contradicting narratives of grave illness or incapacity.
Social media users remain divided. Some, like Sarah Raviani, noted that such rumors are not new. She wrote, “These rumors have been swirling for over a decade—he’s supposedly been in a ‘coma’ several times over the years. Just more soap opera drama from the regime.” Others questioned the authenticity of the photo, given the lack of independent verification.
Experts on Iranian politics have weighed in, urging caution against unverified reports. Jason Brodsky, a policy director at United Against Nuclear Iran, stated on X, “There is not one credible news outlet which has reported as such. So please be careful what you post.”
Despite these reassurances, discussions about succession persist. Mojtaba Khamenei has long been seen as a possible heir. He has connections with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and has been influential in Iran’s internal policies. His potential appointment raises questions about continuity and reform within the regime, particularly regarding foreign policy and nuclear development.
Other names, such as Alireza Arafi and Hashem Hosseini Bushehri, have also been mentioned. Both are members of the Assembly of Experts and have strong ties to the Supreme Leader. Their roles in shaping Iran’s political future remain pivotal.
The latest developments show how quickly misinformation can spread, particularly in politically sensitive contexts. While the photo aims to dispel rumors, questions about leadership succession and regime stability in Iran continue to captivate global attention.
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