A new report from The New York Times is raising serious questions about the condition and control of Iran’s leadership, alleging that Mojtaba Khamenei is severely injured and increasingly sidelined.

According to the report, Mojtaba has not released any recorded public message due to concerns that he could appear weak or vulnerable. Sources cited say his physical condition, combined with security fears, has led to a significant shift in authority away from him and toward senior military figures.

The report claims that key decisions are now being driven by Iranian military generals, who have taken on a dominant role in leadership. In a notable move, those generals reportedly ordered the cancellation of an Iranian delegation’s planned trip to Pakistan ahead of a second round of talks, signaling tightening internal control.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, a trained surgeon, has reportedly been personally involved in treating Mojtaba, further underscoring the severity of the situation.

The report details extensive injuries, stating Mojtaba Khamenei has undergone three surgeries on one leg and may ultimately require a prosthetic. He is also recovering from hand surgery, while severe burns to his face and lips have made speaking difficult. Additional plastic surgery is expected.

If accurate, the revelations point to a potential power vacuum at the highest levels of Iran’s leadership, with the military stepping in as the central force shaping policy during a period of uncertainty.