TEHRAN, Iran (ChatnewsTV) — Rumors are swirling in Iran about the health of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 85, with unconfirmed reports suggesting he has fallen into a coma. Amid escalating tensions with Israel and fears of a broader Middle East conflict, there are indications that secret meetings have been held to secure a successor.
According to media reports, Tehran discreetly arranged the succession in late September, naming Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, as the likely heir.
“The decision to appoint a successor was made in secrecy to ensure stability and avoid potential unrest,” a source close to the discussions revealed.
Khamenei, who has led Iran since 1989, was last seen on November 7 at a session of the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership, raising questions about his current condition. His previous public appearance was during a meeting with university students on November 2. Yet, social media continues to buzz with claims that the Supreme Leader is gravely ill, though no official confirmation has been given.
The succession discussions reportedly took place on September 26, when 60 members of the Iranian Assembly of Experts convened behind closed doors, responding to what insiders describe as Khamenei’s urgent directive.
“There was immense pressure to finalize the decision swiftly and discreetly,” another source noted, amid concerns of public backlash over the non-transparent process.
Mojtaba Khamenei, though lacking formal government experience, has played a more significant role in recent Iranian decision-making, overshadowing figures like the late President Ebrahim Raisi. Analysts suggest his appointment is nearly certain, despite criticisms of the undemocratic approach and his limited political background.
Adding to the uncertainty, a New York Times report on October 27 corroborated claims of Khamenei’s severe health issues and the plans for his son to succeed him. The speculation has heightened anxieties within Iran, as the country faces internal dissent and navigates a volatile regional landscape.
If the transition occurs while Khamenei is still alive, it could be an attempt to manage opposition and mitigate the risk of protests that could follow his death. As of now, the lack of transparency surrounding the succession process continues to fuel both local and international speculation.
