New York Times: Khamenei underwent three leg surgeries

The US press continues to report claims that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was injured in the attacks launched by Israel and the US on February 28. In a report citing Iranian sources, The New York Times alleged that Mojtaba Khamenei was seriously wounded in the attack that killed his father, former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, yet continues to play an active role in the country's decision-making processes.

The report alleged that Khamenei underwent three surgeries on one of his legs and may require a prosthetic leg in the future. It was also stated that he underwent surgery on his hand and has begun to gradually regain the function of that limb.

Among the claims is that Khamenei suffered severe burns to his face and lips during the attack, which has made it difficult for him to speak and may necessitate future cosmetic surgery. Meanwhile, it was also alleged that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who is a heart surgeon, is closely involved in Khamenei's treatment.

"Officials are not allowed to meet with the Supreme Leader"

While it is claimed that Khamenei does not wish to appear in public to avoid creating an impression of being "weak or vulnerable," it was reported that his written statements are shared on online platforms and read on television. Furthermore, it was noted that Iranian officials are not permitted to meet directly with the Supreme Leader due to concerns that Israel could pinpoint his location and carry out an assassination.

It had been claimed that his face was damaged beyond recognition

Previous reports in the US press had also claimed that following the attack in Tehran, Khamenei's face was damaged beyond recognition and that he was severely injured in his legs. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had underscored these claims multiple times during his press briefings.