Amid swirling reports about his health, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has put speculation to rest by sharing a photograph of himself meeting Mojtaba Amani, Iran's Ambassador to Lebanon. The image, posted on Khamenei's official X (formerly Twitter) account, shows the 85-year-old leader in his office, engaged in conversation, dispelling claims of being in a coma or critically ill.

Recent rumors, amplified by international media, suggested that Khamenei had appointed his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as his successor during a secret meeting due to deteriorating health. These reports gained traction following an October article by The New York Times, which stated that the Supreme Leader was "seriously ill." However, the latest post directly challenges these claims, with Khamenei's office describing the meeting as part of his routine engagements.

The photograph serves as a calculated response, aiming to reassure Iran’s public and political landscape at a time of heightened regional and global scrutiny. By featuring a meeting with an envoy stationed in Lebanon—an ally deeply tied to Iran’s geopolitical strategies—the image underscores Khamenei’s ongoing involvement in critical state affairs.

Observers note that the timing of the rumors aligns with mounting pressures on Iran, both domestically and internationally. Yet, the leader’s public appearance suggests that, for now, he remains firmly at the helm of the nation.