Iran confirms Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the February 28 attack that killed part of his family
Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the Feb. 28 airstrike that killed six members of his family, including his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The information was confirmed by Iran's ambassador to Cyprus.
Mojtaba Khamenei, the new leader of Iran. PHOTO: Profimedia
In an interview with The Guardian at the diplomatic residence in Nicosia, Ambassador Alireza Salarian said that Mojtaba Khamenei was present at the time of the bombing that destroyed the former ayatollah's home and survived.
“He was also there and he was injured in that bombing, but I didn't see it reflected in the foreign media. I heard that he was injured in his legs, hand and arm. I think he is in the hospital because he is injured.” said the diplomat.
The ambassador also explained why the new supreme leader did not appear in public or make statements after taking office on Sunday following the death of his father.
“I don't think he's in a condition to make a speech,” said Ambassador Alireza Salarian.
The attack came on the first day of US-led airstrikes against Iran, when the presidential compound in central Tehran was targeted. According to the ambassador, at that time it was the tenth day of the holy month of Ramadan, and Ali Khamenei was at his residence with several family members.
Among the victims was Mojtaba Khamenei's wife, Zahra, who was killed in the attack. Iranian media also reported that Ali Khamenei's wife, Mansour, died of her injuries three days after the bombing.
