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Mojtaba Khamenei Missing From Iran? Where Is the Supreme Leader as Tehran Maintains Silence

March 15, 2026, 9:18 pm

The emerging conflict between Iran and the US and Israel has taken a new turn after a report was published indicating that Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei was secretly taken to Russia for surgery. Until now, the role of Russia in the emerging conflict between Iran and the US and Israel was minor. The minor role of Russia was limited to providing intelligence to Iran about the emerging conflict between the US and Iran. In addition to that, Iran was also receiving political support from Russia. However, a new report published by a Kuwaiti newspaper named Al-Jarida revealed a new turn in the emerging conflict between Iran and the US and Israel. According to the report published by the Kuwaiti newspaper, Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei was secretly taken to Russia by a military plane to undergo surgery because he was appointed as a successor to his father as Supreme Leader of Iran. Until now, Iran was denying rumors about the injury of its Supreme Leader’s successor.

Russia’s Limited Role in the Conflict So Far

Until now, Russia has been taking a cautious stance in the conflict between Iran and the US and Israel. It has been providing intelligence and political support to Iran in this conflict.

It has been observed that this cautious stance of Russia has helped the nation balance its interests in the Middle East region. This has also helped the nation maintain its strategic ties with Iran while avoiding conflict with the West.

However, the new report has now raised speculations that Russia might be involved in the internal security and leadership of Iran.

Report Claims Mojtaba Khamenei Is Not in Iran

Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Jarida published a report claiming that Mojtaba Khamenei is no longer in Iran. According to the report, the Iranian government moved Mojtaba Khamenei to Russia in a secret operation.

The report claims that Mojtaba Khamenei went to Russia on a Russian military flight. It further claims that Mojtaba Khamenei underwent surgery after arriving in Russia. It is further claimed that Mojtaba Khamenei is undergoing treatment in Russia.

The newspaper claims that the Iranian government moved Mojtaba Khamenei to Russia because of health concerns and security threats.

But the claims have not been verified through independent sources. The Iranian government has denied the claims that Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the recent attacks.

Claims of Injuries and Health Concerns

There have been reports regarding the health condition of Mojtaba Khamenei for some time now. There have been some reports that suggested he was injured during the recent attacks related to the regional conflict.

The Iranian authorities have denied the reports regarding the health condition of Mojtaba Khamenei. They have assured that he is safe and in good health. At the same time, his treatment is going on as usual.

Despite the Iranian authorities’ denial of the reports regarding the health condition of Mojtaba Khamenei, the latest report by Al-Jarida raises some questions about his health and his exact location.

Secret Evacuation to Moscow

The report gives a detailed account of the alleged evacuation. According to the Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Jarida, a Russian military plane was used to transport Mojtaba Khamenei to Moscow on Thursday, 12th March.

According to the report, he was admitted to a hospital within the complex of the Russian Presidential Palace. The report further indicates that he underwent surgery shortly after arrival.

According to the sources cited in the report, the continued bombardment and airstrikes in Iran made it hard for the medical team to deliver adequate medical services to the ailing individual. As a result, the Iranian authorities allegedly decided to seek medical attention outside the country.

Putin’s Alleged Offer of Asylum

The report further claims that the current Russian President, Vladimir Putin, offered Mojtaba Khamenei political asylum in Russia. According to the sources, the offer was made during a meeting between Putin and the current Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian.

The security agencies in Iran were concerned that the enemies would find out the location of Mojtaba Khamenei during the war. In this regard, the security agencies supported the decision to move the politician to Moscow.

The report further claims that Mojtaba Khamenei accepted the offer and left for Moscow immediately.

If the report is true, it would mean that there is a high level of trust between Moscow and Tehran.

Trump Questions Whether Mojtaba Khamenei Is Alive

Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei’s status has been further fueled by comments made by US President Donald Trump.

During an interview with NBC News, Trump openly expressed his doubts about whether or not Iran’s new Supreme Leader is alive.

“I don’t know if he is even alive or not,” Trump said.

The comment made by Trump further added to the complexity of the issue. At the same time, it also further emphasized how little is actually known about Mojtaba Khamenei’s status.

Unverified Claims Raise Global Questions

At the moment, none of the allegations made in the Al-Jarida report have been confirmed officially.

However, already the report has sparked a flurry of speculation among diplomatic and security circles. If the allegations are true, it could mean that the Russians are taking a step further in their protection of Iran’s leadership in the current conflict.

At the moment, there is still a question mark on the health and whereabouts of Mojtaba Khamenei and their implications on the Iran-US-Israel geopolitical struggle.

How The US–Israel–Iran Conflict Could Impact India’s Economy And 15 Key Sectors

March 7, 2026, 12:43 pm

The rising conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran in West Asia may set off a variety of economic consequences for India. These consequences may affect India’s economy in various ways, including inflation, currency stability, and various sectors of India’s economy. As per investment banker Sarthak Ahuja, at least 15 sectors and business segments of India’s economy may face a direct or indirect impact of this conflict. India’s economy may face a major impact due to rising oil prices, as India imports almost 90% of its crude oil. However, that’s not all. Shipping, aviation, remittances, agricultural products, and various manufacturing industries may also face a direct or indirect impact. Export-oriented industries like basmati rice and gems and jewelry may also face operational issues. Therefore, the impact of this conflict on India’s economy depends upon the duration of this conflict.

Rising Crude Oil Prices and Inflation Risk

First, crude oil prices often rise during geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region. Any disruption to energy supply routes immediately affects global oil markets. For India, the impact could be significant.

India imports nearly 90 per cent of its crude oil requirement. Therefore, even a moderate rise in oil prices increases the country’s import bill. Higher oil prices quickly push inflation upward. Fuel costs influence transport, logistics and manufacturing expenses.

As fuel prices increase, so do transportation costs. As a result, prices of goods and services also increase. There may also be implications for public finances. Subsidies and import costs of energy may increase.

Higher Shipping and Insurance Costs

Second, the conflict may lead to higher freight and insurance costs for global shipping and one of the most sensitive global trade routes includes the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

An increase in geopolitical risks in this part of the world means that insurance costs for cargo vessels are higher. As a result, Indian exporters and importers may face lower profit margins.

Exporters already operate in a highly competitive global market. Therefore, rising freight costs may weaken their pricing advantage.

Pressure On the Indian Rupee

Third, the conflict could weaken India’s currency. According to Sarthak Ahuja, the Indian rupee may depreciate against the US dollar if oil prices remain high.

A higher oil import bill increases demand for dollars. Consequently, the rupee may lose value. A weaker rupee then makes imports more expensive.

This creates another inflationary pressure. India depends heavily on imported energy, electronics and industrial inputs. Therefore, currency weakness can quickly transmit price shocks across the economy.

Aviation Disruptions and Travel Slowdown

Fourth, there is a possibility of disruptions in the aviation sector. This is because airlines have already experienced flight cancellations and route diversions owing to airspace restrictions in West Asia.

Another major concern is the cost of fuel. Aviation turbine fuel is influenced by global crude oil prices. An increase in the price of fuel will lead to an increase in the cost of flying.

If the disruption in travel is sustained, there is a possibility that international travel will be affected. This will also affect business activities.

Temporary Rise in NRI Remittances

It’s noteworthy that geopolitical uncertainty can lead to a temporary increase in remittances sent by non-resident Indians. During these periods, NRIs may send additional remittances as a precautionary measure.

Remittances can add to India’s foreign exchange reserves. Nevertheless, as Sarthak Ahuja points out, these remittances may not be fully utilized by the public. They may be saved instead.

It’s possible that remittances may not positively impact consumer spending.

Basmati Rice Exports Face Disruption

Besides the macroeconomic effects, there are a few specific industries which may be directly impacted. The export market of basmati rice is one such industry.

Iran is the largest importer of Indian basmati rice. Iraq ranks second in the import list of Indian basmati rice. Additionally, the Gulf countries collectively import more than half of India’s premium quality rice.

Because of these disruptions, more than 200,000 tones of basmati rice shipments are currently stuck in transit. If this situation persists, exporters may face difficulties in meeting their existing commitments.

This may lead to excess supply in the domestic market. As a result, prices may fall. Farmers may face financial difficulties.

Gems And Jewelry Supply Chain Risks

The gems and jewelry industry may also face challenges. A large share of India’s gold and rough diamond imports passes through the trading hub of Dubai.

Disruption of supply along this route may slow down manufacturing activity. The diamond processing center of Surat is likely to be affected.

Less gold supply may also lead to a rise in domestic gold rates.

Manufacturing Sectors Face Input Cost Pressures

Several manufacturing industries may also see rising input costs. Textile and garment manufacturers depend heavily on polyester yarn.

If the prices of petrochemicals rise because of increased prices of oil, it is also possible that the prices of yarns would rise. This would affect the profit margins of exporters.

In the same way, industries like paint, tires, and chemical products also require petrochemicals as inputs. As the price of crude oil goes up, the prices of these products also rise.

Manufacturers may eventually pass these costs to consumers. This would further contribute to inflation.

Agriculture And Fertilizer Supply Concerns

Agriculture may also experience indirect effects. Nearly 70 per cent of India’s Sulphur fertilizer imports come from Gulf countries.

If supply disruptions occur, fertilizer prices could rise sharply. The government may need to increase subsidies to protect farmers.

However, higher subsidies may divert fiscal resources. Funds that could have supported infrastructure development may instead go toward agricultural support.

Travel And Tourism Adjustments

International travel demand may also soften if tensions escalate further. Tourists and business travelers may avoid routes passing through conflict-prone regions.

Travel operators may therefore shift focus toward domestic tourism. Indian destinations may see higher demand as travelers avoid international routes.

India May Turn to Alternative Energy Sources

In order to reduce supply risk, India should consider increasing imports from Russia. The country already uses discounted crude from Russia to reduce energy costs.

This will help the country reduce the current pressure. Nevertheless, the volatility of the global oil market will still affect the pricing.

The long-term effects of the conflict will determine the level of the economic impacts. If the conflict subsides, the impacts will be minimal. Nevertheless, a long conflict will affect the pricing, supply, and operations of various sectors of the economy.