‘I believe Mojtaba Khamenei is still alive’ — Marco Rubio  (Mojtaba ) 

Washington: U.S. Senator Marco Rubio has stated that he believes Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba    (Mojtaba )   Khamenei, is alive and that his role in the ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the conflict in West Asia is steadily increasing. Rubio made these remarks while addressing lawmakers before the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stating, “There are indications that Mojtaba Khamenei is playing an increasingly active role—at some level—in matters related to leadership.”

Mojtaba has not been seen since February 28

In recent months, there had been widespread speculation regarding Khamenei’s status. He was critically injured in an attack that took place on February 28. Several senior military officers—including his father, the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei—were killed in this attack. Since then, Khamenei has not appeared in public, raising questions about his health and his role in the leadership. However, reports citing U.S. intelligence agencies suggest that Khamenei continues to play a pivotal role in formulating war strategies in coordination with senior officials.

‘Decisions are being made under the Supreme Leader’s guidance’

Last month, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also stated that no major decision is taken in Iran without the permission of the Supreme Leader. He emphasized that, even during the ongoing diplomatic negotiations with the United States, all key policies and decisions are being formulated under the direct guidance of the Supreme Leader. During his visit to the Iranian Broadcasting Corporation, Pezeshkian stated that he has always ensured that no statement or policy runs counter to the views of the Supreme Leader, and that no discord arises among the various pillars of the regime that could be exploited by adversarial forces.

**Nuclear Program Talks to Take a Long Time!**
Rubio also referred to the ongoing negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program. He noted that, as part of the peace talks, discussions concerning nuclear issues would be highly technical and complex, and could take several months to conclude. He explained that, in the next phase of the negotiations, Iran would be required to take certain significant steps. These include reopening the strategically vital ‘Strait of Hormuz’ under agreed-upon conditions, and demonstrating a clear commitment regarding the future of its ‘enriched uranium.’

**’Such Issues Cannot Be Resolved in 5 Days’**
Rubio stated that Iran must also be prepared to negotiate regarding long-term and stringent restrictions on its uranium enrichment activities—or even their complete cessation. He remarked, “These are highly technical issues that cannot be resolved in five days. This will require teams of experts to sit down and engage in detailed discussions for 30, 60, or 90 days. Most importantly, Iran must demonstrate its clear consent and commitment to such negotiations.”