U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated on March 13, 2026, that Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been injured and is “likely disfigured.” Hegseth made the remarks during a Pentagon press briefing addressing ongoing U.S. military operations against Iran.
Leadership Status and Military Pressure
Hegseth described Iran’s leadership as “desperate” and “hiding underground,” suggesting a state of disarray amid intensified U.S. military actions. He characterized the new leader as wounded, contributing to an overall weakening of Tehran’s command structure.
The Pentagon briefing included updates on Operation Epic Fury, which U.S. officials say aims to degrade Iran’s military capabilities. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also participated in the session, reinforcing the assessment of escalating conflict dynamics.
Impact on U.S.-Iran Conflict
The report on Mojtaba Khamenei’s injury adds a significant dimension to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. The U.S. is reportedly intensifying strikes to pressure Iran’s command and control, aiming to reduce its ability to coordinate attacks.
Officials emphasized the operation’s objective to neutralize threats posed by Iran while highlighting the challenges of secretive leadership shifts within Tehran’s regime.
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