Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment as Iran’s Supreme Leader in March 2026 followed the February assassination of his father Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes that reportedly also wounded Mojtaba. Since then, he has issued only written statements and unverified images while remaining absent from live public view, with state media relying on archival footage amid ongoing security threats tied to the regional conflict. Traders price later resolution dates higher due to persistent health rumors, regime caution during active hostilities, and the precedent of limited visibility for the new leader. A short August 9 video clip of a private meeting with advisers provided limited new confirmation but has not shifted the pattern of controlled, non-public messaging. Upcoming diplomatic or domestic events could prompt a change in approach if security conditions allow.