According to multiple sources familiar with intelligence matters, U.S. intelligence agencies assess that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Hashemi, is playing a key role alongside senior Iranian officials in shaping war strategy. The report notes that the precise distribution of power within the fragmented regime remains unclear, but Mojtaba may be helping guide how Iran negotiates with the United States to end the conflict.
Since sustaining serious injuries in an attack early in the war, Mojtaba has not appeared in public, fueling speculation about his health and his role within Iran’s leadership structure.
The Trump administration continues pursuing diplomatic means to end the conflict, with a ceasefire lasting over a month. U.S. intelligence assessments indicate that Iran is recovering from American bombing operations, retaining most of its military capabilities, and capable of enduring U.S. sanctions for an extended period.
It was revealed that Mojtaba was declared Iran’s new Supreme Leader days after his injury, succeeding his father—but to date, U.S. intelligence agencies have been unable to confirm his whereabouts.
A partial reason for this uncertainty lies in Mojtaba’s refusal to use any electronic devices for communication; instead, he only interacts with those who can visit him in person or send messages via couriers, a source added.
According to sources, Mojtaba continues receiving treatment, including severe burns on one side of his body affecting his face, arms, torso, and legs.
Iranian President Pezeshkian told state media earlier this week that he held a two-and-a-half-hour meeting with Mojtaba—the first face-to-face encounter between a senior Iranian official and the country’s new Supreme Leader.
U.S. officials’ information regarding Mojtaba’s condition is based on reports from individuals who have communicated with him, according to sources familiar with the matter. However, some intelligence analysts remain skeptical about whether certain figures within Iran’s power structure might claim access to Mojtaba in order to leverage his authority to advance their own agendas.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1864668621849803/
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