On August 26, 2026, President Trump stated in an interview with Glenn Beck that Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is “very seriously wounded” rather than dead. Trump specified that the left side of Khamenei’s body, including his arm and leg, was affected. Mojtaba Khamenei took over the top clerical and political post after his father was killed in February 2026 strikes, and has not appeared publicly since the recent conflict escalated.
Trump pointed out that Iranian officials continue to refer to Khamenei for “final blessings,” arguing they would be staging “a pretty good show” if he were actually dead. Describing Iran’s leadership as “not the most honorable group,” Trump predicted the United States would soon achieve “a very big victory” in the country.
These remarks follow a series of shifting statements from Trump over recent months regarding the supreme leader’s fate. Iranian officials have not issued a detailed public response, and the uncertainty continues to complicate diplomatic efforts, such as talks over reopening the Strait of Hormuz to normal shipping.