Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Supreme Leader of Iran, has sparked significant debate by opting for a written statement instead of a video appearance during his first public message since assuming the position. This choice has led to speculations regarding the reasons behind his absence on camera, particularly in light of the military situation in Iran and the perceived threats from external adversaries like the United States and Israel. Experts point out that appearing publicly could pose substantial risks to Khamenei's personal safety, increasing scrutiny given the ongoing war tensions.

According to Iranian affairs journalist Abd al-Qadir Fayez, the official rationale for Khamenei's lack of a video presence is closely tied to the serious military conditions Iran faces currently. The new leader is seen as a significant target due to his high-ranking position within the Iranian power structure, especially amid heightened hostility from foreign adversaries. The media has echoed concerns surrounding the safety risks connected with his public appearances during such volatile times.

In addition to the geopolitical concerns, Fayez highlights a more delicate subject regarding Khamenei's health, suggesting that he may have been injured in recent military conflicts, which could explain his absence from the public eye. His prior injuries from a previous war with Israel, referred to as the '12-day war', add to the uncertainty surrounding his current state. The incomplete nature of this information contributes to the overall ambiguity about his capacity for media engagements, making it a topic of intense public and media discourse in Iran.