Fresh questions surrounding the condition and whereabouts of Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei intensified after his own father-in-law acknowledged that he has had no contact with him, offering only a hopeful assurance that “God willing” he is well.

Gholam Ali Haddad-Adel, a former speaker of Iran’s parliament and a current member of the Expediency Discernment Council, was asked by Iran’s ILNA news agency whether he had any information regarding Khamenei’s health.

“God willing, Mojtaba is healthy,” Haddad-Adel replied, referring to Mojtaba Khamenei. “At the moment, due to certain circumstances, he is not in contact with any organization or person, but God willing he is healthy.”

The unusual remarks came after Mojtaba Khamenei was notably absent from his father’s funeral, further fueling speculation about his condition and his role within Iran’s leadership. Observers noted Haddad-Adel’s repeated use of the phrase “God willing,” coupled with his admission that no one is in contact with him, as adding to the uncertainty surrounding his status.

The mystery has only deepened in recent days. About a week ago, Israeli officials indicated they have growing doubts about the extent of Khamenei’s control over events inside Iran, reportedly describing him as a “present absentee.” According to Israeli assessments, Khamenei formally remains Iran’s Supreme Leader, but it is increasingly unclear how involved he is in the regime’s decision-making process.

Speculation escalated further after Saudi-owned Al Hadath reported, citing what it described as an “Israeli security source,” that Khamenei was no longer in Iran. The report also claimed that Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ahmad Vahidi and other senior officials have been drafting directives on his behalf.

Israel’s defense establishment rejected that report last week, stressing that no official Israeli authority has confirmed the claim. According to Israeli intelligence assessments, Khamenei is alive and remains inside Iran.

However, while Israeli officials dismissed reports that Khamenei had left the country, they did not address the broader questions surrounding his health, his ability to function, or who is effectively directing the affairs of the Iranian regime.