Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has -so far- been missing from the funeral

• Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly designated supreme leader, has not been seen in public during the funeral proceedings for his father.
• His absence comes amid reported injuries from a strike and heightened security concerns following the war with the United States and 'Israel'.

Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s third supreme leader and son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has yet to appear publicly during ongoing funeral proceedings in Tehran, despite expectations that he would play a visible role in the ceremonies.

His absence has drawn attention given his recent elevation to leadership and the political transition unfolding within Iran following the war that began on 28 February.

According to Iranian media reports, Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the same strike that killed his father during the opening phase of the conflict, when the United States and 'Israel' launched coordinated attacks on Iran.

'Israel' had previously stated, both before and after his reported appointment, that he would be considered a target, raising speculation that security concerns may be limiting his public appearances.

Iranian officials have not provided an official explanation for his absence.

Since his succession in early March, Mojtaba Khamenei has not made any public appearances. His communications have been limited to written statements published in Iranian media outlets.

His most recent statement reportedly appeared yesterday, in which he reappointed Iran’s judiciary chief for another term.

The funeral proceedings have also highlighted losses within the Khamenei family, including the reported death of Mojtaba Khamenei’s wife, Zahra Haddad-Adel, during the war. He was also absent from her funeral ceremony.

The events have drawn a wide range of foreign delegations, including representatives of Iran’s regional allies. However, several prominent Iranian political figures, including former presidents, have also not been seen publicly.

It remains unclear whether Mojtaba Khamenei will appear later in the proceedings, including at the upcoming burial ceremony scheduled to take place in Mashhad, the late leader’s birthplace.