Mojtaba Khamenei delivered his first message to the people of Iran on March 12, 2026, after being appointed the country’s new supreme leader. The speech came at a time of national mourning and rising tensions in the region.
However, the address was not delivered by Khamenei in person. Instead, it was read by a presenter on Iranian state television. This unusual move quickly sparked speculation about his health and safety. Some reports suggest that he may have been injured in the same attack that killed his father, Ali Khamenei.
In the opening part of his message, Mojtaba Khamenei offered prayers and greetings in traditional religious language. He also sent condolences for the death of his father and described the loss as a painful moment for the Iranian nation.
He expressed deep respect for his father’s leadership and sacrifices. In the speech, he said that the former leader had spent more than sixty years serving the country and the Islamic revolution. Mojtaba Khamenei described him as a strong and dedicated figure who had devoted his life to faith and national service.
The new leader said it would not be easy to follow in the footsteps of two major figures in Iran’s modern history. He referred to both his father and the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ruhollah Khomeini. According to him, their leadership had shaped the direction of the country for decades.
Mojtaba Khamenei admitted that taking on the responsibility of supreme leader is a difficult task. He said the position carries a heavy burden and that he would need the support of the Iranian people to fulfill his duties.
In his message, he praised the resilience of the Iranian nation. He said the people had endured many hardships but remained patient and strong. He thanked citizens for their loyalty and for gathering in large numbers to express their support following the leadership transition.
The speech also included prayers for the country and for Muslims around the world. Mojtaba Khamenei asked for unity among supporters of Iran and expressed hope for success in the ongoing struggle against what he described as hostile forces.
He ended his address by asking for divine support and victory for the nation during the holy month of Ramadan. He also prayed for the well-being of the Iranian people and for honor and dignity for those who had lost their lives in recent events.
Although the message was broadcast nationwide, the absence of Mojtaba Khamenei from the screen has raised questions about his current condition. Officials have not provided clear details about whether he was injured during the earlier attack.
For now, the new leader’s first message signals the beginning of a new chapter in Iran’s political leadership during a very tense period for the country and the wider region.